October 18, 2026
Minister of Industry, Joe Issa Al-Khoury, opened the Lebanese pavilion at the International Food and Beverage Exhibition “SIAL 2026” in the French capital, Paris, which is considered one of the most prominent global forums specialized in the food industries sector. The opening ceremony was attended by the Lebanese Ambassador to France, Rabie Al-Shaer, the Director-General of the Ministry of Industry, Adel Al-Shabab, the Director-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Louis Lahoud, the Director-General of the Ministry of Economy and Trade, Muhammad Abu Haidar, and the President of the Syndicate of Lebanese Food Industries Owners, Ramez Bou Nader, in addition to a crowd of Lebanese industrialists seeking to enhance the competitiveness of national products in global markets. The pavilion was organized by the Lebanese Food Industries Owners Syndicate in coordination with Hospitality Services.
In his speech during the opening, Minister Issa Al-Khoury praised the steadfastness of Lebanese industrialists, especially in the agricultural and food industries sectors, describing them as “true resistors” for their ability to continue production, investment and export despite crises, wars and the high cost of production. He stressed that Lebanese cuisine now sits on the throne of Mediterranean cuisine thanks to the efforts of exporters who deliver the Lebanese taste to every home in Europe, the United States, the Gulf, and various countries of the world.
Issa Al-Khoury explained that Lebanon is betting on quality and high quality to compete with major countries, stressing that export constitutes a fundamental pillar of the national economy by introducing foreign currencies, creating new job opportunities, and stabilizing the Lebanese in their land to limit their immigration. He also stressed that the duty of the state and ministers lies in supporting the private sector, keeping pace with its needs, and creating appropriate conditions for its growth and development.
For his part, President of the Food Industries Owners Syndicate, Ramez Bou Nader, considered that participation in the “SIAL 2026” exhibition embodies the Lebanese industrialists’ determination to succeed and confirm their international presence, noting that the Lebanese pavilion witnessed a successful opening amid local and international media interest that reflects the attractiveness of Lebanese cuisine.
Bou Nader pointed out that the Syndicate has been organizing the Lebanese pavilion at the most prominent international exhibitions over the past thirty years, such as “Golffood” in Dubai, “Anuga” in Germany, and “SIAL” in Paris. He explained that the food industry sector accounts for about 25% of the total volume of Lebanese exports, stressing the determination of industrialists to continue developing their factories and updating their expertise to keep pace with global competitiveness and provide the best products that reflect Lebanese taste and creativity.
