Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade, Philip Dalidakis, who is leading the trade mission to Gulfood in Dubai, said the Victorian Government was working hard to take advantage of new opportunities and growing prosperity in the region.

The Victorian Government trade mission to the event will see the state's companies promoting some of its finest fruit, vegetables and processed foods.

The Middle East region is one of the fastest growing food and beverage markets with countries such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar importing more than 90 per cent of their requirements.

The market is also one of Victoria's largest export destinations, with exports worth more than $2.76 billion in 2014-2015, which includes $1.2 billion in food and beverage exports. Victorian horticulture exports to the region are expected to grow, particularly in the UAE, which is now the third highest value table grape market for Victoria.

For more information, visit: www.invest.vic.gov.au.