Last month, Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Europe hosted five Pacific businesses at FOOD EXPO 2025, in Athens, Greece, the leading food and beverage industry exhibition in South-East Europe. The premier event, held at the Metropolitan Expo from March 8–10 and featuring 1,300 exhibitors, attracted 3,673 international buyers, and more than 34,000 visitors from around the globe.
From Fiji, Pleass Global Limited showcased VaiWai®, its Natural Artesian Water sourced from the tropical lowlands of the Namosi rainforest, and Down To Earth introduced Fiji Fire Original, its batch-crafted island blend of chilli sauces made from hand-picked red bongo chillies.
PNG was well represented with Banz Kofi exhibiting its arabica beans grown in Mount Hagen, and Frangipani Foods inviting visitors to sample wild harvested galip nuts, a delicious and highly nutritious nut still mostly unknown outside of Melanesia.
Finally, NIUE Vanilla showcased its organic goods, from vanilla pods to vanilla paste, to pure vanilla extract.
Jodie Stewart, PTI Europe’s Trade Commissioner, said the FOOD EXPO 2025 audience was enthralled by the Pacific’s unique products, and the event opened doors to new opportunities.
“Our stand was incredibly popular, with visitors wanting to know more about each and every product. The galip nut delighted passers-by, as many had never tried one before. Industry leaders were really interested in knowing more about Niue, and were in awe over how such a tiny nation produces such exquisite products. People were consistently wowed by the quality of all the Pacific products, which attracted a lot of positive attention.”
“The businesses’ participation at FOOD EXPO 2025 not only opened doors to new markets but also fostered cross-cultural exchanges, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the Pacific to the world. They were able to introduce their products to a diverse audience, highlighting the distinct flavours, high quality and sustainable practices that define the collective Pacific brand.”
Stewart said the key advantages of participating in FOOD EXPO 2025 included the ability to secure new distribution channels in the European market, and to better understand European consumer preferences, regulatory requirements and market trends.
“Through B2B meetings at the PTI Europe stand and informal networking, many businesses engaged in promising discussions with distributors, retailers and specialty food buyers who are eager to uncover unique and alternative offerings. We look forward to the connections made at the exhibition paving the way for long-term partnerships, and increased trade between the Pacific region and Europe.”
“Beyond business deals, the experience also served as an important learning experience. Attendees gained knowledge on packaging, branding and certifications that are essential for competing in the global marketplace. FOOD EXPO 2025 reinforced Pacific businesses’ understanding in its collective ability to thrive on the world stage.”
For more information on PTI Europe, reach out to the team here.
