Bou Nader: "The Food Industry Sector Maintains Production and Export Levels

Ramez Bou Nader, President of the Lebanese Food Industries Syndicate, announced that “the food industry sector has maintained its production pace so far, and despite the ongoing war, has continued to meet the needs of citizens in the Lebanese market and fulfill contracts with suppliers to foreign markets.”

In a statement, he added: “Manufacturers have doubled their efforts, working beyond difficulties, continuing preparations and planning to face the crisis and mitigate its consequences if it persists. What helps them adapt to this critical period is the normal operation of maritime, land, and air facilities, which ensures the import of raw materials for production, fuel, machinery, and exports to foreign countries, while taking into account the strategic stock plan to secure and protect food security.”

He expressed hope that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia would reopen its markets to Lebanese products, or at least allow Lebanese goods to transit by land to Gulf countries in the first stage. He explained that Lebanese food exports constitute 50% of total production, with Gulf countries—especially Saudi Arabia—absorbing 40% of all exports. This significant proportion negatively affects business volume, making it difficult for manufacturers to find alternative markets

Bou Nader stated: “Lebanese products have become known for their high quality. Manufacturers continue to improve this quality by adopting modern international standards. The importance of these products lies in their high quality and affordable prices, which enable competitiveness and have earned the trust of consumers in Lebanon and globally. What matters to us as manufacturers and as a productive sector is contributing to economic growth, reducing public debt, creating jobs, and fostering development.”

He also addressed the issue of increased costs for insurance, shipping, fuel, and other expenses, saying: “The temporary increase imposes itself on us as manufacturers and harms both us and consumers, but unfortunately, it is a necessary burden. I am confident that manufacturers understand that this stage requires solidarity, cooperation, awareness, sacrifice, and responsibility to ensure consumer needs are met without exploitation or greed.”