Pindi Food Fest draws hordes of foodies

Over 100 food stalls showcase regional and traditional cuisines

RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) on Sunday organised the three-day Pindi Food Fest – Fourth Edition at Ayub Park, attracting a large turnout of families and food lovers from Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The annual festival aims to celebrate Pakistan's rich traditional and regional cuisines, introduce innovative culinary concepts, and provide valuable networking and branding opportunities for SMEs, start-ups and women entrepreneurs, particularly those operating in the food sector.

Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, Ambassador of Algeria Brahim Romani, Station Commander Rawalpindi Cantonment Brigadier Ali Anjum Syed, along with representatives of various trade associations and other distinguished guests, visited the festival and commended RCCI for the initiative.

During his visit, the minister praised RCCI for its proactive role in addressing the concerns of the business community, while simultaneously promoting cultural, social and recreational activities for the public. He congratulated RCCI President Usman Shaukat, members of the chamber's cabinet and the entire organising team on the successful hosting of the event.

The minister said RCCI deserved appreciation for arranging positive, constructive and people-friendly activities such as the annual food festival, adding that such events play an important role in projecting Pakistan's soft image at both national and international levels.

He observed that the presence of foreign diplomats at the festival would help convey a positive perception of Pakistan abroad.

The minister further stressed that it was unjust to associate Pakistan solely with terrorism, noting that the world must also be introduced to the country's culture, traditions, hospitality and positive social values.

RCCI President Usman Shaukat, while outlining the key objectives of the festival, underscored the promotion of local culinary heritage and the empowerment of women-led food businesses.

"More than 100 food stalls are participating in the festival, showcasing a diverse range of flavours and cuisines. This initiative provides women entrepreneurs with a platform to launch and expand their brands while building meaningful connections within the industry," he said.

He added that the festival also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs. "Our aim is to create opportunities and motivate women who have yet to embark on their entrepreneurial journey," he remarked. This year, more than 15 stalls have been allocated exclusively for women, particularly those operating home-based food businesses.