Dubai hosts IAOM MEA 2024 focusing on innovation, resilience in global milling
DUBAI – The International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM) Mideast & Africa (MEA) Conference and Expo, held from November 10–13, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, has gathered over 600 industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from more than 50 countries.
In its 34th edition, this year’s event emphasizes resilience, technological innovation, and sustainability amid evolving global challenges in the milling and grain processing sectors.
Dr. Hischam El-Agamy, Executive Director at IMD in Switzerland, opened the conference with a keynote on “Megatrends Shaping the Business Landscape in an Uncertain World,” underscoring the economic, environmental, and technological pressures shaping the industry.
Dr. El-Agamy’s insights framed a series of sessions exploring how the sector must adapt to global supply chain disruptions, climate change, and shifts in regional trade policies
A high-profile panel discussion moderated by Dan Basse, President of AgResource Co., addressed Turkey’s recent ban on wheat imports, a development that could have broad implications for grain markets in Turkey and throughout the Mideast and Africa.
Panelists, including Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy of Ulusoy Flour Mills and Nicolas Tsikhlakis of the Jordanian Grain & Flour Mills Association, examined the structural impacts on prices, availability, and regional trade flows
Regional perspectives and technological innovations
IAOM MEA 2024 also provided insights into regional market outlooks, featuring expert speakers like Ian Flagg from U.S. Wheat Associates and Roland Guiragossian from Intercereales.
These sessions offered a detailed view of trends and challenges in key markets, including the U.S., Australia, France, and India. Their analyses reflected a need for industry players to prepare for fluctuating grain availability and the potential impact of geopolitical tensions on trade
On the technology front, innovations in milling and feed production were central to discussions, with industry leaders like Priscilla Bakalian of Bühler Group and Andreas Hummel of Wingmen Group GmbH showcasing solutions to improve energy efficiency and operational flexibility.
Ivan Harjacek from ANDRITZ emphasized the transformative potential of AI in milling processes, offering real-world examples of measurable gains through digitalization
Additionally, food security took center stage as Hank Paul from BS&B Pressure Safety Management presented a session on minimizing risks associated with combustible dust in milling facilities.
This critical session underscored how proactive safety measures not only protect workers but also help maintain a stable supply chain in an industry integral to global food security
Networking and Industry Partnerships
Beyond educational sessions, the Expo featured nearly 180 booths, fostering interactions among milling professionals and exhibitors displaying the latest products, services, and technologies.
Networking events, including the Traders’ Cocktail Dinner, allowed attendees to build valuable connections that will strengthen collaboration across regions.
As the conference concludes, its impact on policy, technology adoption, and industry standards will likely be felt across the MEA region in the years to come.
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