USA Pulses hosted a Global Trade Reception at Gulfood.

U.S. pulse industry umbrella organization USA Pulses (American Pulses Association)Gulfood brought together international trade representatives and industry leaders at a special reception held in Dubai as part of the Gulfood Food Fair week (January 26-30, 2026). The event, which took place on the evening of January 28th at the Cheval Maison Hotel Royal Ballroom, aimed to strengthen collaborations in the global pulses trade.

The reception, held within walking distance of the Gulfood Exhibition Center, provided a valuable networking platform for industry professionals from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Throughout the event, the quality of US-sourced pulse products, their sustainable production approach, and their role in the global market were highlighted.

Global Vision and Collaboration Messages

Sarina Welsh, on behalf of USA Pulses (American Pulses Association), gave the opening speech of the evening. Following this, industry representatives discussed developments in the global market and opportunities for collaboration.

Jeff Rumney, Vice President of Marketing at USA Pulses (American Pulses Association), addressed global trends in the pulse market and the challenges facing the industry in his speech. He also highlighted the upcoming USA Pulses Summit in Orlando and shared his vision for the future of the sector.

Danniel Raulerson, Executive Director of the US Dry Bean Council (USDBC), discussed the role of the US dry bean industry in international trade and strategic partnerships.

Highlighting Dubai's importance in the global pulses trade, Vijay Lyengar, President of the Global Pulses Confederation (GPC), assessed the region's role as a trade hub.

The US is working to strengthen its agricultural trade relations with the Middle East. FAS Dubai representatives conveyed this.

Chef's Show and USA Pulses Menu Experience

One of the most noteworthy parts of the evening was the demonstration by Chef Soul, USA Pulses (American Pulses Association) MENA Ambassador. The chef showcased the innovative use of pulses in gastronomy by presenting a demo recipe for a chocolate mousse dessert made with US chickpeas.

Later in the event, guests had the opportunity to network while enjoying a lavish buffet menu prepared entirely with American pulse products. The menu included creative dishes such as lentil curry, pulse chicken biryani, chickpea salads, and pulse-based desserts.

Strengthening Trade Ties

During the closing segment of the reception, US industry representatives were invited onto the stage to engage directly with international participants. This segment underscored the US pulse industry's goal of strengthening its presence in global markets.

Discussions held throughout the event revealed increased interest in US pulse products in the Middle East market, creating new trade opportunities.

USA Pulses officials emphasized that this reception in Dubai was not just a networking event, but also a strategic meeting that strengthened the foundation of long-term business relationships.

Source: HORECA TREND