Jafza, Haldiram’s to boost saffron processing in GCC
Scheduled to begin operations in March 2025, the facility will be managed by Kesar Expert & Packers.;
Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) has joined forces with renowned Indian multinational food brand Haldiram’s to establish one of the largest saffron processing facilities in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The agreement was signed on the sidelines of Gulfood in Dubai, according to an official release from Jafza.
Scheduled to begin operations in March 2025, the facility will be managed by Kesar Expert & Packers, a specialist in high-quality saffron processing with 22 years of experience in India. It will also obtain the globally recognised European BRCGS certification, ensuring the quality and purity of its saffron.
The hub will initially process 30 metric tonnes of saffron, with plans to scale up to 100 metric tonnes over the next five years. This growth will be driven by the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the world-class connectivity and infrastructure at Jebel Ali Port and Jafza, mentions the official release.
The parties also discussed other avenues of future collaboration including the expansion of Haldiram’s presence in Dubai and further investment in food processing and distribution facilities.
The agreement strengthens Dubai’s position as a global trade hub, supported by Jafza’s expanding Food and Beverage (F&B) sector, which now hosts over 770 F&B companies, the release added.