The twenty-first edition of Russia’s foremost food and drink fair, World Food Moscow, took place on 17-20 September in the Russian capital, welcoming a record 1,500 exhibitors from 70 countries, including first time participants Portugal, Finland, Jordan, South Korea, Taiwan, Moldova and Brazil.
Tony Higginson, head of sales at exhibition organiser ITE Group, commented: “World Food Moscow has proven itself once again to be the place to exhibit at to access the Russian food and drink market. Exhibitors can conduct business negotiations and build up their number of high profile contacts over four days, which will hopefully lead to new contracts and business in the Russian market.”
Greek exporter Protofanousi Fruits, for whom the Russian market accounts for around a quarter of sales, was present to promote its kiwifruit, as well as other products.
“Our brand is very well known in Russia,” said the company’s George Kallitsis. “The kiwifruit season is about to start and this is a very important market for us, so we are here to discuss the plans for the season with our customers. Strawberries are another important product here, both for the wholesale market and supermarkets, as are cherries and plums.”
BeFresh, an Israeli company stationed both in Israel and Moscow, exports a whole range of produce to Russia, not least peppers, tomatoes and avocados. According to CEO Zack Kafri, the disappearance of Agrexco has created numerous opportunities for Israeli exporters in Russia, which takes around 85 per cent of BeFresh’s production.
“Russia has been a good market these last few years,” he said. “We are co-operating with the growers so we can help them to choose what to grow and when in order to guarantee a customer for their produce. Knowing the needs of your customers is key in this market.”
