Does the Group plan to go ‘upstream’ in the food chain by launching direct farming or investing in farms?

Suresh Vaidhyanathan: The Group has no imminent plans for direct investments into agriculture. However, we are considering opportunities in processing, logistics, technology and value-added services within the food value chain.

Is the food vertical a recent addition to the Group’s interests?

Suresh Vaidhyanathan: The Ghassan Aboud Group has been investing and developing competencies within the food vertical. The food business has emerged as a core business for the Group with its rapidly expanding portfolio of operations in this sector. The Group has aligned itself closely with the UAE’s ambitions for food security associated innovations in this critical industry.