SIAL Network: Connecting the world’s food markets

PUBLISHING DATE
December 20, 2024
CATEGORIES

The worldwide SIAL Network held a conference at its flagship event in Paris. Experts from across the globe shared their perspectives on the trends, challenges and opportunities facing the international food industry.

At the latest conference organised by the SIAL Network in Paris, event host Michel Juvillier opened the discussions by highlighting the role of the network in helping the food industry face global challenges. ‘The SIAL Network offers a unique platform for connecting, innovating and responding to changes in food markets’, he said.

A strategic global network

Nicolas Trentesaux, Managing Director of SIAL Network, recalled the origins of this major event, which was born 60 years ago in Paris. ‘Since its beginnings, the SIAL Network has expanded around the world, with strategic events in China, Canada, India, Malaysia and Indonesia,’ he explained. Today, the network brings together more than 7,500 companies from 127 countries, attracting visitors from nearly 200 countries.

For Nicolas Trentesaux, one of the greatest challenges is to feed 10 billion people by 2050. ‘This requires a massive increase in food production and a strengthening of trade between world markets. The SIAL Network is responding to this need with regional events tailored to local specificities’, he added.

An overview of trends by market

Daisy Zang, Director of Strategic Development for SIAL China, highlighted three key trends: an increased demand for healthy and functional foods, a preference for traceable products and simple composition labels, and an increase in online sales. ‘In China, young consumers are influenced by social networks and live streaming platforms, creating opportunities for innovative brands,’ she explained. SIAL China is responding to these needs with pavilions dedicated to health and competitions such as the Snacking Award.

Tony Mellis, President of SIAL Canada, pointed out that Canadian consumers are looking for food that is both affordable and environmentally friendly. ‘Younger generations are particularly sensitive to packaging recycling and plant-based products,’ he said. SIAL Canada is supporting this trend with a buyer host programme that facilitates meetings between local and international manufacturers and buyers.

Siddharth Chibba, Director of Exhibitions for SIAL India, highlighted the challenges posed by an inefficient logistics infrastructure and the need for an efficient cold chain. ‘India, with a growing middle class, is seeing an increase in demand for organic and sustainable food,’ he said. SIAL India recently launched a second event in Mumbai to better serve this dynamic market.

Henri Tan, SIAL Malaysia representative, explained that Malaysian consumers are looking for innovative and practical products. ‘Since COVID-19, ready-to-eat foods and practical solutions have become increasingly popular,’ he observed. Daud Salim, SIAL Indonesia representative, highlighted the importance of Halal certifications and events such as the Jakarta Culinary Challenge, which bring together international chefs for competitions.

A global facilitator for the industry

The SIAL Network does more than just organise exhibitions. It plays a central role in supporting businesses, with programmes such as matchmaking and themed pavilions dedicated to new food technologies. In 2025, SIAL Canada will launch an AI-powered digital marketplace to connect buyers and sellers. ‘We are constantly monitoring the expectations of our audiences to offer tailor-made solutions,’ explained Tony Mellis.

In China, Daisy Zang highlighted the role of SIAL Network publications, such as white papers on local trends. In India, Siddharth Chibba added: ‘Our technology pavilions give companies access to the latest innovations and solutions for the Indian market.

The SIAL Network 2024 conference demonstrated how this global network continues to shape the future of the food industry. Whether connecting local markets to the global, promoting innovation or enhancing sustainability, the SIAL Network remains a key player in redefining global food trade.

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Source: Sial Paris


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