At BLAST, we specialize in guiding European manufacturers and suppliers of agro-food processing and equipment to expand their business into Africa and the Middle East (MEA) —

two of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving markets.

With growing populations, rising urbanization, and a heightened focus on food security, countries across the MENA and African regions are investing heavily in agro-industrial development and cold chain infrastructure. From Algeria to Nigeria, from KSA to the Ivory Coast, there is increasing demand for machinery that improves food preservation, post-harvest handling, and processing efficiency.

As of 2024, the MEA cold chain logistics market is valued at approximately USD 16.8 billion, with projections indicating growth to USD 41–108 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13–20%. Within Africa alone, the food cold chain segment is expected to grow from USD 9.1 billion in 2024 to nearly USD 14.5 billion by 2030.

The agro-food processing industry is also evolving rapidly, with governments and private stakeholders investing in processing facilities, value-added production, and packaging solutions to reduce post-harvest losses and boost exports.

Key Growth Drivers

• Urbanization and Rising Incomes: Increased demand for processed and refrigerated food products across urban centers.

• Food Security Initiatives: National strategies aimed at reducing import dependency and strengthening local food production.

• E-commerce and Modern Retail: Surge in online grocery platforms and refrigerated delivery systems.

• Healthcare and Pharma: Expansion of cold chain networks for temperature-sensitive medical and pharmaceutical products.

• Technological Innovation: Adoption of IoT, blockchain, and solar-powered refrigeration to enhance traceability and sustainability.

  
  Opportunities for Exporters

  Exporters of food processing machinery, cold chain technologies, smart packaging, and temperature monitoring systems will find a growing market in MEA. Local governments are incentivizing partnerships and infrastructure development to build resilient supply chains and improve food distribution.

We provide end-to-end support to European businesses seeking to navigate these high-potential markets — from market entry strategy, regulatory compliance, and local partnerships, to tailored go-to-market solutions. Our mission is to reduce risk, accelerate market penetration, and unlock sustainable, long-term growth.

Whether you are an established exporter or entering these regions for the first time, [Your Agency Name] is your trusted partner for business development in Africa and the MENA region.