MAFI – stepping onto the global stage

MAFI for Agricultural Produce Industries is Egypt’s leading supplier of premium, sustainable agri-food ingredients. It specialises in citrus and tomato concentrates, frozen and freeze-dried strawberries, IQF fruits and vegetables, and multi-fruit purée concentrates. With a strong focus on quality, sustainability, and export-ready solutions, it serves private label brands, manufacturers, and foodservice providers worldwide.

Prior to participating in Gulfood 2026, Food & Drink Technology speaks to Sherif Tantawy CEO.

What will MAFI showcase at Gulfood 2026, why is this year significant, and how does the company differentiate itself on the show floor?

At Gulfood 2026, MAFI will be stepping into the global stage for the first time, ahead of its official commercial launch. The company will showcase its complete B2B ingredient range, including citrus concentrates, NFC and cloudy juices, tomato and multi-fruit solutions, IQF frozen fruits and vegetables, and freeze-dried strawberries. This year is a major milestone, as MAFI introduces the region’s largest integrated agro-industrial complex and signals its arrival as a serious new player in food ingredient manufacturing. On the show floor, MAFI stands out through its use of AI across operations, full farm-to-factory traceability, and robust quality control systems that ensure consistent, high-quality products at scale.

Are new products or technologies being unveiled?

Yes. MAFI will be introducing several new capabilities at the show, including its fully integrated, multi-category processing setup and advanced freeze-drying technology. The company will also spotlight Orange Cloudy Concentrate as a key citrus innovation, alongside AI-powered quality assurance systems now running across 23 production & packaging lines to ensure consistent, reliable quality.

What partnerships is MAFI targeting?

MAFI is looking to build long-term partnerships with global food and beverage manufacturers, retailers, private-label brands, and distributors. The focus is on working closely with like-minded partners to co-develop products and establish reliable, long-term supply relationships, especially with brands that care about quality and sustainability.

How does Gulfood support MAFI’s global ambition?

Gulfood gives MAFI the perfect stage to introduce its export-focused, technology-driven approach and connect directly with global buyers. It’s a key opportunity for the company to show how Egyptian agriculture can be transformed into world-class ingredients for international markets.

MAFI’S GROWTH STRATEGY & GLOBAL POSITIONING

What defines MAFI’s competitive edge?

MAFI’s strength lies in operating at scale while staying smart and efficient. From day one, the company has integrated AI-driven operations with sustainable practices and end-to-end sourcing and processing, all designed to serve global B2B customers with consistently high-quality products.

What advantages does Egypt offer?

Egypt brings a lot to the table — strong and reliable citrus, strawberry and tomato production, easy access to Europe, the GCC, Africa, and the US, and a cost-efficient manufacturing base supported by deep agricultural know-how.

How is MAFI serving Europe and the US?

MAFI is a private free-zone company aiming for 100% export operations from day one. Its facilities and processes are designed specifically to serve international markets, meeting Europe’s requirements around traceability and ESG while delivering the scale, consistency, and food safety standards expected by US customers.

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE & SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE

How does the Free Zone location add value?

Being based in a GAFI Private Free Zone helps MAFI move faster. It simplifies exports, reduces customs friction, lowers costs, and makes logistics more predictable and efficient.

How does MAFI ensure resilience?

MAFI is built to handle uncertainty. By sourcing from multiple channels, using AI to plan ahead, running integrated cold chains, and working with long-term logistics partners, the company can stay flexible even when global conditions change.

How is consistency ensured?

Consistency comes from doing the basics right, every time. Standardised processes, AI-supported quality monitoring, and centralized data systems help ensure the same level of quality across all products and formats.

FUTURE OUTLOOK

What are MAFI’s priorities beyond 2026?

Beyond 2026, MAFI’s focus is on scaling up production, locking in key global customers, and growing its export footprint. A big priority will be strengthening integration across the value chain by securing raw materials through contract farming and long-term partnerships with trusted, reliable growers. At the same time, MAFI plans to expand its portfolio with new clean-label, tropical, and value-added products that respond to real market demand. The company is also exploring a selective move into B2C, starting with freeze-dried products for retail and e-commerce, while looking at opportunities to replicate its integrated model in high-potential markets across Africa and the MENA region.

What is the message to global manufacturers?

MAFI’s message to global manufacturers is simple: there’s a better way to build the future of food ingredients. One that combines reliable sourcing, smart technology, and consistent quality at scale — without cutting corners. MAFI is here to be a long-term partner, helping manufacturers grow profitably with confidence, transparency, and products they can trust.