As part of the framework of the Syrian Enterprise and Business Centre (SEBC) / SME Support Programme (SSP) in promoting exports and opening new export markets for Syrian products, SEBC, in cooperation with the Federation of Syrian Chambers of Commerce (FSCC) organized Syria's participation in the 5th edition of the SIAL - Montréal International Food Exhibition which was held at the Montréal Convention Centre - Canada from 23 to 25 April, 2008.

With participation from 30 countries and 9 international pavilions, one of which was Syrian, SEBC planned a stand with an area of 100 m² for 8 Syrian companies showcasing their products to include grains, sees, coffee, chocolate, olive oil, Arabic sweets.

The exhibition provided Syrian companies with an opportunity to get acquainted with the latest innovations and developments in the food industry.

 In preparation for the trade fair, SEBC provided the Syrian participating companies with counseling, advice and training on how to prepare for trade fair participation in terms of promotional material, showcasing, participation and marketing.

SEBC also prepared a booklet of the 8 companies including general information on Syria, investment opportunities in the Syrian food industry sector and company profiles and products.

The Syrian stand was visited by the Syrian Ambassador to Canada, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries of Quebec and several other Ambassadors to Canada who tasted the food displayed and were very much impressed by the quality and taste of the food.

SEBC, through participation in SIAL, is striving to open new export markets in North America, particularly due to the large Arab communities living in the continent which are considered a very important market for Syrian food products.