Together for Organic

The Dubai Business Group for Organic Foods (DBGOF) is a leading voice committed to fostering a thriving organic food industry in the UAE. We advocate for a dynamic and sustainable business environment, supporting business owners and entrepreneurs, promoting regulatory compliance, ethical trading, healthy work environments, and encouraging innovation.

Key Principles

Market Alignment and Regulatory Compliance: We recognize the importance of aligning with the UAE market while fostering streamlined regulatory processes. DBGOF works with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and other relevant authorities to ensure members operate within a clear and efficient compliance framework, minimizing unnecessary burdens for businesses. 

Business Support and Environment: DBGOF is dedicated to empowering organic food businesses. We provide comprehensive support through networking opportunities, access to resources, and knowledge-sharing platforms, facilitating growth and success for our members. 

Ethical Trading and Work Environment: Ethical business practices are a cornerstone of our advocacy. DBGOF promotes fair dealings, transparency, and adherence to ethical standards, contributing to the well-being of employees and the broader community.

Innovation Advocacy: Recognizing the crucial role of innovation, DBGOF advocates for research and development efforts. We support entrepreneurs in bringing forth new ideas and technologies, while emphasizing the protection of intellectual property rights to foster a climate conducive to creativity and advancement. 

Consumer Awareness and Education: Building consumer trust and understanding is essential. DBGOF actively collaborates with various stakeholders to promote awareness of the benefits of certified organic products and the value they offer society.

Addressing Key Challenges

Problem Statement 1: Organic False Claims

Challenge: There are several reports of a small number of local trading companies engaging in unethical practices within the organic food market. These companies are allegedly purchasing conventionally grown produce, particularly vegetables like cherry tomatoes, coriander, and mint, during peak summer months (July-August) when organic options might be limited. This deceptive practice has a negative impact on the market in several ways:

· Consumer Fraud: Customers trusting the "organic" label are misled and potentially paying a premium for non-organic produce.

· Price Distortion: The artificially low prices offered by these companies due to using conventional produce undercut genuine organic products, making it difficult for honest businesses to compete fairly.

· Market Disruption: This unethical behaviour creates confusion and distrust among legitimate traders who adhere to proper organic sourcing practices.

Target Audience: Regulatory agencies, major supermarket groups.

Action Plan:

· Establish a task force to engage with regulatory authorities to identify and address weaknesses in surveillance and enforcement of organic standards.

· Collaborate with major retailers to implement robust voluntary compliance verification systems.

· Develop consumer awareness campaigns to educate the public and build confidence in organic product regulation.

Problem Statement 2: Certified Organic Standards International Equivalency Alignment

Challenge: Divergent international standards hinder UAE-based organic manufacturers' export potential.

Target Audience: Regulatory agencies

Action Plan:

· Form a policy advocacy team to work on aligning UAE organic standards with relevant international and GCC benchmarks.

· Draft and propose legislative amendments by Q2 2025 to facilitate the export of UAE organic products.

· Host an annual international organic standards business forum in the UAE, starting in 2025, to foster dialogue and collaboration.

Problem Statement 3: Consumer Awareness of Organic Benefits

Challenge: Limited public understanding of the broad benefits of certified organic products hinders industry growth.

Target Audience: Industry participants, government agencies, schools, universities, workplaces

Action Plan:

· Partner with schools and universities to integrate organic food and sustainability topics into curricula by 2025.

· Leverage social media, workshops, and public events to educate consumers on the advantages of organic foods and farming practices.

· Develop and distribute educational materials highlighting the environmental and health benefits of organic consumption.

· Collaboration and Engagement.

DBGOF recognizes the power of collaboration to achieve impactful advocacy. We actively engage with a broad range of stakeholders, including:

1. Government Authorities:

Dubai Chamber of Commerce: As a key regulatory body, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce sets policies and regulations affecting businesses. Collaborating with them is crucial for alignment with broader business practices and compliance.

Ministry of Economy, UAE: This governmental body oversees economic policies, trade, and entrepreneurship. Engagement with the Ministry of Economy is essential for addressing broader economic considerations and including below mentioned department of ministry:

· Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, UAE:

· Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, UAE 

· Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, UAE 

· Department of Agriculture & Livestock Sharjah, UAE

2. Policymakers:

Local Government Officials: Engaging with local government officials who have the authority to shape policies and regulations impacting the organic foods industry is vital.

UAE Federal Government Representatives:Advocacy efforts should extend to federal government representatives who play a role in shaping national policies related to business and commerce.

3. Industry Associations:

Organic Food Industry Associations: Collaboration with industry-specific associations, both local and international, can amplify the impact of advocacy efforts and promote best practices within the sector.

Business Groups and Chambers: Beyond the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, connecting with other business groups and chambers in the UAE can strengthen the collective voice of DBGOF.

4. Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs:

Local Business Leaders: Influential business figures within the organic foods sector and related industries can provide valuable support and endorsement for DBGOF's advocacy initiatives.

Entrepreneurial Community: Engaging with entrepreneurs in the food sector fosters a sense of community and ensures that advocacy efforts address the specific needs of businesses in the region.

5. Consumers and the General Public:

Consumer Groups: Understanding and addressing the concerns and preferences of consumers is essential for effective advocacy. Building the volunteer’s network for the awareness and support among the public can influence market trends and demand. 

Volunteer Network: DBGOF will be establishing a dedicated volunteer network to spread awareness about our mission and vision. These passionate individuals will engage with the community through various channels, including:

School Outreach Programs: Educating students about the benefits of organic food and sustainable practices.

Partnerships with Private Businesses:  Collaborating with businesses to organize educational workshops and events for their employees and customers.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Participating in farmers markets, community events, and social media initiatives to raise awareness among the public.

Media Outlets: Partnering with media outlets, both traditional and digital, can help in disseminating information, creating awareness, and garnering public support for the cause.

6. Research and Innovation Partners:

Research Institutions: Collaborating with research institutions can support DBGOF's emphasis on innovation. Building partnerships for research and development can contribute to the growth of the organic foods industry.

Intellectual Property Authorities: Ensuring the protection of intellectual property rights involves engagement with relevant authorities responsible for enforcing and regulating such rights.

Through strategic engagement with these key stakeholders, DBGOF can ensure its advocacy efforts address critical issues, shape policies that promote organic food industry growth, and ultimately contribute to a sustainable and healthy food system in the UAE.

Conclusion

DBGOF is committed to advancing the interests of its members and advocating for a thriving organic food industry within the UAE. This advocacy policy outlines our focus areas, key challenges, and action plans to address them. By fostering a collaborative environment, promoting ethical practices, and encouraging innovation, DBGOF aims to create a sustainable future for organic food in the UAE.