Algerian Pavilion To Debut At The Food & Beverage Show In Miami

MIAMI, FL-  Dates, olives, figs, mint; couscous with cinnamon, coriander, raisins; savory meats.   The cuisines of Algeria, among the most exotic in the world, will be showcased for the first time at the 12th Americas Food & Beverage Show in Miami with the debut of the Algerian pavilion, November 9 – 10, 2009.   The Algerian pavilion presence is in partnership with the World Trade Center Algeria.

As the largest country bordering the Mediterranean Sea and second largest country on the African continent, Algeria is well positioned for bi-lateral trade. Currently, Algerian exports of citrus, grapes and olives to the European Union account for roughly two-thirds of its outbound trade. As an importer, Algeria has a growing demand for high quality food and beverage driven by a rise in affluence based on the nation’s oil resources. While it continues to be the largest oat market in Africa, Algeria is working to develop its promising dairy industry and looking to expand bi-lateral trade opportunities, especially with Latin America.

According to Chakib Kouidri, marketing manager for the World Trade Center Algeria, 11 companies will be exhibiting at the Algerian Pavilion with dates, honey, strawberries, jams, beverages, seafood, couscous, dairy products and olive oils.

“The participation of countries like Algeria underscore the scope and reach of our trade show as we become more international each year” says Jelena Meisel, show director. “This year’s buyers will see products, displays and country pavilions from every continent on the globe, except Antarctica.”

Those discovering Algerian cuisine for the first time will find it a captivating blend of Berber, Turkish, French, and Arab culinary traditions, ranging from very mild to heavily spice and flavor-infused.  Muslim Arabs invaded Algeria in the 600s, bringing with them exotic spices from the Spice Islands of eastern Indonesia. Saffron, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon are among the flavors associated with Algerian dishes. The Arabs also introduced Algeria’s Berber population to the Islamic religion.  Ninety-five percent of Algerians are Muslim, and Islam continues to influence almost every aspect of Algerian life, including food and beverage. Today, there is a surge of demand for Halal certified food products.

A second strong influence comes from the French who introduced their diet and culture to Algeria, including their well-known loaves of bread and sidewalk cafés. In fact, French is Algeria's second language, after the official language of Arabic.