Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Eng. Mansour Al-Mushaiti, highlighted the importance of the agricultural sector in the country’s economy during the 43rd General Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome. The industry contributed SR100 billion to Saudi Arabia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022, a significant milestone.
Al-Mushaiti emphasized the progress in Saudi Arabia’s agricultural investments, resulting in the increased value of locally produced agricultural goods. The country has achieved self-sufficiency in various crops, especially those cultivated using modern technology. Integrated water management strategies have played a crucial role in reducing agricultural water usage from 86 percent to below 70 percent.
To promote sustainable agricultural growth, effective water resource management, and protect natural resources, Saudi Arabia has implemented policies, initiatives, and programs. The Agricultural Development Fund provides loans covering over 70 percent of capital expenses for agricultural projects, prioritizing the adoption of modern technologies. The lending rate has significantly increased from SR500 million in 2015 to SR7 billion in 2022.
Al-Mushaiti reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for the FAO’s initiatives in achieving food and water security, as well as fighting poverty and hunger at local, regional, and global levels. The FAO session, held from July 1 to July 7, appointed QU Dongyu as the Director-General for the term of August 1, 2023, to July 31, 2027.
Through agricultural growth, sustainable practices, and active engagement in global initiatives, Saudi Arabia consolidates its role in ensuring food security, water sustainability, and environmental preservation.