Abu Dhabi has launched the ‘Golden List’ initiative to fast-track the import of approved food products through ports. The initiative aims to improve food security, enhance sustainability, and provide quicker access to essential goods for residents and businesses. Authorities say the program streamlines procedures while maintaining high standards for quality and safety.
The Golden List targets food items that meet strict quality and safety requirements. Products included in the list will benefit from priority customs clearance, reducing delays at ports and ensuring they reach markets more efficiently. The initiative is expected to improve access to fresh, high-quality food for consumers and support local businesses in the food sector.
Authorities explained that the initiative is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to strengthen supply chains and ensure uninterrupted access to essential products. By prioritizing high-standard imports, the program supports food security while promoting responsible trade practices and reducing the risk of spoilage or delays.
The Golden List is expected to benefit importers, retailers, and distributors by reducing operational challenges and improving planning efficiency. Faster clearance at ports allows businesses to deliver products to markets promptly, maintain freshness, and respond to consumer demand more effectively. Local restaurants and supermarkets will gain access to a wider range of ingredients, enhancing culinary offerings across the emirate.
Industry experts said the initiative will encourage innovation in the food sector. By ensuring timely access to premium and specialty products, businesses can introduce new items, expand menus, and enhance the overall dining experience. The program also supports small and medium-sized enterprises by facilitating access to international suppliers and niche products.
In addition to efficiency, the Golden List emphasizes sustainability. By reducing port delays, the initiative minimizes waste caused by spoilage and supports environmentally responsible trade practices. Authorities stressed that sustainability and food security are key goals alongside economic benefits, making the program a holistic approach to modernizing food imports.
The initiative also incorporates rigorous safety and quality checks. Only products that meet certification and regulatory standards are included in the Golden List. This ensures that all prioritized imports are safe for consumption, maintaining consumer confidence and aligning with international best practices.
Officials confirmed that the Golden List process will be regularly reviewed to expand eligible products and improve operational procedures. Feedback from importers, distributors, and consumers will be used to refine the program and enhance its effectiveness over time. Authorities said the initiative is designed to be adaptable to changing market needs and global trade conditions.
The program demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in the food sector. By streamlining imports of high-quality food products, the Golden List supports local businesses, improves access for consumers, and strengthens food security in the emirate. Authorities believe that the initiative will serve as a model for modern trade practices and contribute to long-term economic and social resilience.
By launching the Golden List, Abu Dhabi ensures that essential and premium food products can enter the market quickly and reliably. The initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to trade, sustainability, and food security, providing benefits to businesses, residents, and the wider economy while positioning the emirate as a regional leader in efficient and responsible food import practices.
