SIAL 2024
Suriname Makes its Mark at SIAL 2024
SIAL 2024, the 60th anniversary edition of the world’s leading food trade show, will take place from October 19-23, 2024 at Paris Nord Villepinte.
With over 265,000 visitors from around the globe, SIAL is a premier platform for the food industry, showcasing the latest innovations and connecting key players. Suriname is proud to participate in this prestigious event with 16 companies, facilitated by SITA. These dynamic businesses will showcase the unique flavors and high-quality products that Suriname has to offer.
Discover the Surinamese companies participating at SIAL 2024:
Suriname Alcoholic Beverages N.V. (SAB)
Suriname Alcoholic Beverages N.V. (SAB) is a prestigious producer of fine spirits, with a legacy dating back to 1966. Originally established to contribute to Suriname’s economic development, SAB has grown to become a leading name in the production of premium rums and other alcoholic beverages. The company is deeply rooted in Suriname’s rich history and cultural traditions, and its products are a testament to the country’s vibrant spirit and heritage. SAB is driven by a commitment to quality, sustainability, and social responsibility. The company’s flagship product, Borgoe Rum, is celebrated as the “golden spirit of Suriname,” embodying the essence of the country’s rum-making tradition.
N.V. Rijsthandel Sahara
N.V. Rijsthandel Sahara is a leading rice producer in Suriname, with a rich history dating back to 1966 when it was founded by the late Mr. Laltapersad Bishesar. The company started as a small rice huller in the Nickerie district and has since grown into a major player in the international rice market. Today, N.V. Rijsthandel Sahara is managed by the fourth generation of the Bishesar family, who continue to uphold the company’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation.
N.V. Privilege la Prosperite
N.V. Privilege la Prosperite (NV PLP) was founded on August 19, 2022, in collaboration with 72 Seventy-Two Holding B.V., a company initiated by an Olympian judoka and an Executive Auditor with a vision to contribute to the welfare of communities. NV PLP specializes in the production of high-quality açaí puree, sourced sustainably from the rich forests of Suriname. The company’s mission is to empower local farmers while delivering exceptional, nutrient-rich products to international markets. NV PLP is driven by core values of sustainability, quality, and community empowerment. The company is committed to sourcing açaí from local farmers, ensuring that its practices support both the environment and the livelihoods of the communities involved.
African Caribbean Food Industry N.V.
African Caribbean Food Industry N.V. (ACFI), established in Suriname, is a prominent seafood processing company known for its innovative approach to Ready-To-Eat products tailored for the local autochthonous population. ACFI has expanded its offerings, focusing on quality and
sustainability, while continuously developing new product lines, including canned seafood and Ready-To-Eat meals in collaboration with its sister company, Surimaribo International NV.
Erna's Tea Garden
Erna’s Garden N.V. is a Surinamese company that grew out of the passion for organic, healthy food and herbal teas. Founded in 2019, the company is named after Erna Antoinette Julia Bijnaar, whose garden in Suriname inspired a legacy of natural and environmentally friendly products. Erna’s Garden is built on the philosophy that 100% customer satisfaction is the key to success, with profits being a byproduct of satisfying customers. The company has made significant strides in expanding its product range and production facilities, and has received grants to further grow the business. Erna’s Garden is committed to producing 100% natural products that are processed and packaged with the utmost care for the environment.
Cookie Closet
Cookie Closet was born out of a lifelong passion for baking, sparked when I was just 11 years old, creating sweet treats for family and friends. After studying Entrepreneurship at the University of Applied Sciences in Rotterdam and writing my thesis on what would become Cookie Closet, I returned to Suriname. Initially, I worked as an assistant manager and product developer for a family-owned business, but soon realized my true calling was in baking. Driven by the inspiration of my grandfather, Armand van Alen, a prominent businessman, I took the leap to establish my own bakery. Starting from my home kitchen in April 2020, Cookie Closet quickly gained recognition, leading me to take out a loan to set up a full-fledged bakery, which officially opened its doors on December 1, 2021.
Topical Pride
Tropical Pride Chips Factory Ltd., a family-owned business for over 30 years! Our commitment to quality and sustainability ensures a delicious and wholesome snacking. A Legacy of Quality and Innovation Founded in 1991, by Ingrid van Velthuizen- Jibodh, Tropical Pride pioneered transforming locally sourced plantains, cassava, and wheat flour into delicious, high-quality snacks. Under the current leadership of Tania van Velthuizen and Jerry Sewberath Misser, innovation remains at the forefront. The company is constantly developing new products and exploring ways to extend shelf life, ensuring international success.
Gom Food Industries N.V.
Founded in 1996, Gom Food Industries NV is a family-owned business that has carved a niche in the world of premium marinades and sauces. The company’s flagship brand, Sishado, was born out of a rich culinary heritage blending Surinamese, South American, and Caribbean flavors. Initially starting in the kitchen of Mother van Gom, Sishado has grown into an ISOcertified enterprise, exporting to various countries including the Netherlands, Germany, France, Belgium, and several Caribbean islands. Gom Food Industries NV operates on a foundation of strong values including social
responsibility, respect, integrity, and a commitment to continuous growth and excellence. These values are reflected in every bottle of marinade produced, ensuring that Sishado stays true to its roots while consistently meeting the highest quality standards.
Moengo Food & Beverage N.V.
Moengo Food and Beverage N.V. was established in 2018 with a mission to create products derived from natural substances, particularly forest by-products. The company was inspired by the rich biodiversity of Suriname’s rainforest, and its goal is to harness the medicinal properties of native plants, roots, and herbs. Our focus is on cultivating these plants and using them in our products, which range from medicinal teas to health-supporting supplements and cosmetics.
Hynes All Natural Products
Hynes All Natural Products was founded in 2018 by Robin Vladimir Richenel Hynes. The company began with a mission to create natural skincare products, inspired by the challenges some women faced using regular soap during pregnancy. Motivated by the success of these natural products, Hynes expanded into food processing, specializing in dried fruits and vegetables. Today, Hynes All Natural Products is recognized for its high-quality offerings that cater to health-conscious consumers in Suriname and beyond. The company’s core values include a commitment to producing high-quality products with minimal preservatives, managing the use of plastics, and integrating eco-friendly practices into every aspect of its operations.
SFVF
The Cooperatie Saramacca Fruit & Vegetable Farmers was established in 2021 in the Saramacca district of Suriname in response to the growing need for organized agribusiness. The cooperative was founded to empower local farmers, providing them with market access, training, and support. Since its inception, the cooperative has undergone significant changes in leadership, ensuring that it remains dynamic and responsive to the needs of its members. The cooperative is driven by a mission to produce high-quality, pesticide-free fruits and vegetables, adhering to Global GAP standards. With a focus on sustainability and community support, the cooperative is dedicated to delivering exceptional produce to both local and international markets.
Aska Chi
Aska Chi is a Surinamese brand dedicated to transforming everyday moments into extraordinary experiences through its unique range of products. Founded in 2017 by Chinyere Kabeli, Aska Chi started as a small business producing almond orgeade from a traditional family recipe. Over time, the brand has expanded to include a variety of home fragrances and food products, all designed to bring a touch of celebration to daily life. The name “Aska Chi” is derived from the initials of Chinyere’s son and her own name, symbolizing the brand’s deep personal connection and commitment to quality. Aska Chi is more than just a product line; it’s a lifestyle brand that emphasizes the joy of everyday moments.
Soetie Pem
Soetie Pem is a distinguished producer of cassava-based products in Suriname. Her journey began with a deep-rooted passion for the versatile cassava plant, which has been a staple in Surinamese cuisine for generations. Soetie’s commitment to preserving traditional methods while introducing innovative products has made her a key figure in the local food industry.
Fernandes Group
Founded in 1910 by Isaak Fernandes, Fernandes Group began as a small novelty store in Paramaribo and grew under the leadership of his son Jule, who acquired the Coca-Cola Franchise in 1938. Today, Fernandes Group is one of the largest privately-owned companies in Suriname, playing a leading role in the country’s economy across various sectors. The company’s core values include integrity, innovation, quality, and people-oriented leadership.
N.V. Rising Sun Winery & More
N.V. Rising Sun Winery & More was born out of a passion for Suriname’s rich heritage and unique flavors. The inspiration came from Amania Benito, who, after tasting the traditional primitive wines made by his mother-in-law—a native whose ancestors crafted these drinks using a quick, week-long process—saw the potential to refine and expand this traditional craft. Recognizing the special cultural significance and unique preparation methods, Benito
dedicated himself to studying, researching, and experimenting with these indigenous techniques. Almost ten years ago, he founded Rising Sun Winery & More, transforming these ancient methods into a diverse range of high-quality wines that capture the essence of Suriname.
