Issa Al-Khoury: Lebanese Industrialists Are True Resisters

Minister of Industry Joe Issa Al-Khoury inaugurated the Lebanese pavilion at the International Food and Beverage Exhibition SIAL 2026 in Paris, one of the world's most prominent specialized exhibitions for food industries. The event was attended by Lebanese Ambassador to Paris Rabih Al-Shaar, Director General of the Ministry of Industry Adel Al-Shabab, Director General of Agriculture Louis Louhoud, Director General of Economy and Trade Mohammad Abu Haidar, President of the Association of Lebanese Food Industries Ramz Bou Nader, and Lebanese industrialists seeking to enhance the presence of Lebanese products in global markets and highlight the quality and competitiveness of the Lebanese food industry.

On this occasion, Issa Al-Khoury expressed his "pride in participating in this global exhibition," stating, "I invite you to take pride in your achievements, especially since you carry the name of Lebanon high abroad and present a bright image of Lebanon, despite crises, wars, rising production costs, and other challenges you face." He considered that "Lebanese industrialists, particularly in the agri-food sector, are 'true resisters,' as they continue to produce, invest, export, and hold on to their institutions."

He added: "We salute their steadfastness and determination to preserve and develop national industry. You export distinctive Lebanese industries, namely the food industries. The world has discovered the delicious taste of Mediterranean cuisines, with Lebanese cuisine emerging more and more as the foremost among them. This distinction is not limited only to the spread of Lebanese restaurants abroad but also stems from the efforts of food industry exporters who work to bring Lebanese foods to every home in Europe, the United States, the Arab Gulf, and other countries around the world."

Issa Al-Khoury emphasized that "although Lebanon cannot compete with major countries in terms of production quantities, it succeeds in competing in terms of quality and type. Therefore, it is essential to maintain this level for Lebanese products and enhance their quality, which consolidates their presence in foreign markets."

He stated that "exports constitute a fundamental pillar for supporting the national economy, as they contribute to bringing foreign currencies into the country, creating new job opportunities, stabilizing Lebanese people in their homeland, and limiting emigration. Therefore, it is time to stop exporting Lebanon's human potential and instead work to retain them in Lebanon. It is the duty of the state and ministers to support the private sector and keep pace with its needs, because the role of the state lies in establishing appropriate frameworks and providing conditions that help the private sector grow and develop."