Bord Bia and 15 Irish food exporters are in Paris for the world’s largest food fair.
Salon International d’Alimentation (SIAL) opened on Saturday and runs until Wednesday.
Around 7,500 exhibitors from 130 countries will be competing for the attention of around 8,000 buyers with an estimated purchasing power of €50 billion.
Bord Bia has invested in a pre-show B2B marketing campaign to recruit influential buyers to meet with Irish exhibitors.
“SIAL takes place every two years and is an important component of Bord Bia’s strategic global business development plans,” said Jim O’Toole, Bord Bia Chief Executive.
“Our goal is to ensure that our Irish exporters experience the best possible outcome from their participation in SIAL.
“Bord Bia has arranged high level meetings between international buyers and retailers and their Irish meat and dairy suppliers,” he added.
The Innovation Awards also take place during the fair, which recognise innovative products developed by the agri-food sector.
Dawn Farms has been shortlisted for their MEAT+ product, which combines plants with meat. They will be showcasing MEAT+ at the dedicated SIAL Innovation Zone.
“This is my second opportunity to come to SIAL and see first-hand how Irish exporters stand out on this competitive global stage,” said Martin Heydon, Minister of State with responsibility for Research and Development, Farm Safety and New Market Development at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
“SIAL is an opportunity for our Irish exhibitors to connect with both French and international trade visitors.
“These engagements are invaluable to explore new customer opportunities as well as building on existing customer relationships, to strengthen our exports,” he added.
This year marks Ireland’s 24th appearance at the trade fair, which celebrates 60 years this year.