Spring Valley invests US$50M to establish agro-commodity hub in Dubai’s Jafza

DUBAI—Spring Valley, a leading agro-commodity supplier in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), has announced an AED 184 million (US$50 million) investment to establish a distribution hub within Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza).

The hub is poised to enhance the processing and distribution of essential food commodities, bolstering regional food security.

The facility, spanning over 106,000 square feet, is designed to incorporate advanced processing and storage capabilities, including consumer packaging, roasting, and grinding operations slated for completion in phases over the next two years.

Once fully operational, the hub is expected to process more than 65,000 metric tonnes of staple food ingredients annually, such as pulses, spices, and nuts, generating an estimated annual turnover exceeding AED 440 million (US$120 million).

Founded over 25 years ago by Chairman and Managing Director Shaji Mathew, Spring Valley has been a key player in ensuring food security across the UAE, GCC, and North Africa.

The company operates advanced production facilities in Dubai, Umm Al Quwain, Oman, and India, handling 100,000 tonnes of pulses and 50,000 tonnes of tree nuts and spices annually.

Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operations Officer of Parks & Zones at DP World GCC, emphasized the critical importance of such initiatives.

 “With 80% of the region’s food supply being imported and global demand set to soar for two billion more people by 2050, ensuring food security is more critical than ever. We are proud to welcome Spring Valley to Jafza and support their efforts to drive innovation in this sector,” he said.

He highlighted Dubai’s pivotal role in the UAE’s food trade, noting that the city handles 75% of the nation’s food and beverage imports.

Jafza continues to be a cornerstone in the UAE’s food trade, hosting over 770 food and beverage businesses, a 14% increase from the previous year. In 2023, the free zone facilitated trade worth AED 23.2 billion (US$6.3 billion), accounting for 26% of Dubai’s total food and beverage trade value.

Toms Mathew, Executive Director of Spring Valley Food Industries, remarked on the strategic significance of the new hub:

“As a home-grown brand, this new hub in Jafza strengthens our role in regional food security. Our strategic location next to a world-class port ensures efficient logistics, enhancing the UAE’s position as a leading hub for essential food.”

Spring Valley’s new facility will operate as a 100% sustainable and carbon-neutral hub, featuring a solar power plant in alignment with Dubai’s renewable energy goals.

The facility will also adhere to the highest international food safety standards, including HACCP and BRCGS certifications, ensuring the quality and safety of its products.

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