“Gulfood 2026”
Hikari Miso to Exhibit at the Middle East’s Largest Food Trade Fair

Hikari Miso Co., Ltd. will exhibit at “Gulfood 2026”, the largest food trade fair in the Middle East, to be held at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), from January 26 to 30, 2026.

At our booth, we will showcase a wide range of our signature products, including the new item “SHINSHU MISO 1kg” for the Middle Eastern market, which began shipping in October 2025, miso soup“KANTAN Miso Soup Original 3 Servings”, and the globally popular authentic ramen brand“Menraku” series. Our booth will be located at the Japan Pavilion, Stand No. 31-2 in World Food, South Hall 5. We will highlight the versatility of miso not only through miso soup but also by offering tastings of miso-based sweets.Leveraging the growing popularity of Japanese food culture in the Middle East, we aim to showcase the appeal of miso – the cornerstone of Japanese culinary tradition – to audiences worldwide.

■ Gulfood 2026 – Event Overview

■ Growing Popularity of Japanese Cuisine in the Middle East

As of 2025, Japanese cuisine continues to gain significant traction across the Middle East. The number of Japanese restaurants worldwide has surpassed 180,000 in the Middle East, and the figure has increased by approximately 20% compared to the previous survey in 2023^※2, reflecting steady expansion and establishment in the region.

Casual udon noodle chains and ramen specialty shops are widely embraced. At the same time, high-end Japanese restaurants have earned world-class recognition at international gastronomy awards, underscoring the exceptional quality of Japanese cuisine.

In line with this growing popularity, the total value of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products and food exports from Japan to the Middle East is also on an upward trend. Demand for Japanese food and ingredients across the Middle East remains strong, and further growth in local Japanese food culture and ingredient markets is anticipated.

※2 Source: Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Business News

https://www.jetro.go.jp/biznews/2025/12/5b3b792ffec5ac1e.html

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Media Contact

HIKARI MISO Co., Ltd. Public Relations
info@hikarimiso.co.jp