UAE agrees to set up food cluster in Andhra Pradesh during Davos talks

UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri on Tuesday agreed to establish a food cluster in Andhra Pradesh following a meeting with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

The UAE minister also assured support to enable 40 companies to set up operations in the southern state.

“Al Marri agreed to set up a food cluster in Andhra Pradesh’s food processing sector,” an official press release said, detailing developments from the WEF meetings.

During the discussions, Naidu and Al Marri deliberated on strengthening the financial partnership between Andhra Pradesh and the UAE. The chief minister highlighted investment opportunities in food security, logistics, port-related industries, renewable power, urban development, tourism and infrastructure.

The two leaders also discussed a proposal by UAE-based Sharaaf Group to establish a multi-modal logistics park in Andhra Pradesh, the press release said.

In addition, talks were held on setting up a modern construction unit using light gauge steel framing technology in the greenfield capital city of Amaravati. The discussions also covered a potential partnership between Andhra Pradesh and DP World to develop large-scale port terminals, logistics facilities and infrastructure.

Naidu and Al Marri further discussed plans for Abu Dhabi National Oil Company to set up a floating storage and regasification unit.

According to the chief minister, a strategic partnership with the UAE would strengthen industries, employment opportunities and exports from Andhra Pradesh.

Naidu is on a four-day visit to Switzerland to attend the 2026 edition of the World Economic Forum to promote Andhra Pradesh and attract investments.

(With inputs from agencies)