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IAOM MEA 2024 delivers innovation and networking for the grain industry

22 November 20244 min reading

34th Annual IAOM MEA Conference & Expo, held from November 10 to 13, 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, was a resounding success, uniting over 860 delegates from 62 countries. The event reaffirmed its status as the leading platform for networking, innovation, and critical discussions in the global grain milling and feed manufacturing industries.

The conference featured an ambitious lineup of 30+ sessions, tackling current and future challenges facing the grain sector. Industry experts and thought leaders delivered keynote addresses, participated in panel discussions, and hosted technical sessions, offering deep insights into trends and technologies shaping the industry.

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE

The event celebrated industry excellence with the IAOM MEA 2024 Regional Leader Award presented to Muhammad Islam Ali of Mombasa Maize Millers (Kenya) and the Miller of the Year Award given to Abdel Moniem Salem of Essa Al Ghurair Investment LLC (UAE). The Regional Leader Award is presented annually to a distinguished miller in the industry, selected based on criteria such as milling capacity and downstream operations, contributions to society through employment, charitable efforts, training initiatives, adherence to industry best practices, implementation of safety protocols, and commitment to environmental conservation. And the Miller of the Year Award is an honor that celebrates an outstanding miller for their exceptional skills and expertise.


Keynote Highlights

  • Dan Basse, President of AgResource Co (USA), explored the interplay between geopolitics and global wheat demand, analyzing factors shaping 2024/2025 grain prices. His session provided an in-depth market analysis, helping participants address uncertainties in a volatile global market.
  • Dr. Hischam Al-Agamy, Executive Director at IMD Business School (Switzerland), discussed megatrends reshaping industries, highlighting opportunities for innovation amidst disruption.
  • Riaz Shah, OBE, from Hult International Business School (UK), examined the human and technological factors influencing corporate adaptability in a rapidly changing world.


Panel Discussions

  • “How to Manage Risk in a Dynamic Political World”: Moderated by Dan Basse, this panel featured experts like Merzad Jamshidi (USA) and Ieva Serksnyte (UAE), who shared strategies for mitigating risks amid geopolitical uncertainties.
  • “Türkiye’s Wheat Import Ban and its Regional Impact”: Panelists such as Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy (Türkiye) and Muhammad Islam Ali (Kenya) analyzed the economic ripple effects of Türkiye’s policy change on Middle Eastern and African grain markets.

Technical Sessions

  • Milling Efficiency and Education: Experts like Dr. Secil Uzel (Türkiye) and Priscilla Bakalian (Kenya) highlighted innovative techniques to improve mill performance, workforce training, and energy efficiency.
  • Artificial Intelligence in Milling: Speakers, including Martin Ellegast (Switzerland) and Ali Magboul (UAE), showcased AI-driven solutions transforming milling operations, from predictive maintenance to precision grain sorting.
  • Feed Milling Technology: This session delved into the latest feed manufacturing technologies, with contributions from Philippe Taeschler (Switzerland) and Nicoleta Axenti (Italy).

A comprehensive overview of global grain markets was provided in the Market Outlooks Session, with regional insights from experts such as Ian Flagg (U.S. Wheat Associates) and Don Campbell (Australia). Topics spanned the Black Sea, French, Canadian, U.S., Australian, and Indian grain markets.


EXPO HIGHLIGHTS

The exhibition hosted 128 booths from 94 companies, representing flour milling, feed manufacturing, and allied sectors. Leading global players showcased cutting-edge machinery, technologies, and services. Delegates had the opportunity to explore innovative solutions, network with industry leaders, and exchange ideas.

The event’s social calendar added a touch of vibrancy. The Welcome Reception, sponsored by Bühler and Mühlenchemie, offered attendees a chance to network amidst the stunning Dubai skyline. The Traders’ Dinner at Soho Club DXB, themed “Gala in Bloom,” provided a memorable evening of dining and entertainment, fostering meaningful connections among participants.

As the curtains close on this year’s event, the industry eagerly looks forward to the 35th IAOM MEA Conference & Expo, set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 2025. 

For more details on upcoming events and forums, visit www.iaom-mea.com or email info@iaom-mea.com.

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