The United Nations Industrial Development Organization has brought together global and regional leaders at the Food Guard Global Summit 2026 in Cairo to accelerate efforts aimed at reducing food loss and strengthening resilient food systems across the Middle East and Africa.
Held from 2–4 June 2026 alongside major food industry exhibitions, the summit convened government officials, private-sector representatives, researchers, and development partners to address one of the most persistent challenges in global food systems. The discussions focused on improving efficiency across supply chains and reducing the significant volume of food lost before it reaches consumers.
The event was supported by multiple Egyptian ministries and international organizations, reflecting strong political and institutional backing for food security initiatives. Organizers emphasized that reducing food loss is not only a technical issue but also a strategic priority for improving food availability, economic stability, and regional competitiveness.
A key focus of the summit was strengthening the “midstream” of food systems, including processing, storage, transportation, packaging, and logistics. Participants highlighted that inefficiencies in these areas are major contributors to food loss, particularly in developing economies where infrastructure gaps remain significant.
Discussions also emphasized the role of private-sector innovation and investment in scaling solutions such as cold-chain development, sustainable packaging, and improved supply chain management systems. These approaches are seen as essential for reducing waste and improving food distribution efficiency.
UNIDO showcased ongoing initiatives supporting agribusiness development, including programs that empower women-led enterprises and strengthen rural livelihoods. These efforts were presented as part of a broader strategy to build more inclusive and resilient food systems across vulnerable regions.
With participation from thousands of stakeholders across the food industry, the summit highlighted growing global momentum toward coordinated action. It reinforced the need for collaboration between governments, industry, and development partners to address food loss as a critical barrier to food security.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to advance practical, scalable solutions that reduce waste, improve supply chains, and support long-term sustainability in food systems across Africa and the Middle East.
