(Seoul=Yonhap News) Reporter Han Ju-hong = The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on the 5th that it participated in the 2026 Gulfood food exhibition held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates last month, concluding business agreements (MOU) worth 8 million dollars (approximately 11.6 billion won). This is a 46% increase from last year. This year marks the 31st Gulfood, the largest food exhibition in the Middle East, and is considered a leading business platform for entering the Middle East and Africa markets. This year, 8,500 companies from 190 countries worldwide, including the United States and Japan, participated, marking the largest scale in history. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs organized a Korean Pavilion with 24 companies, double the number from last year, and showcased various K-Foods such as ramen, snacks, and sauces. In particular, consultations with local buyers focused on halal-certified Hanwoo beef, premium fruits, and low-sugar and functional foods, and on-site tasting and sampling events led to export contracts and the conclusion of MOUs. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs plans to actively expand K-Food exports, focusing on the Middle East and Africa markets, using Gulfood as an opportunity. juhong@yna.co.kr