AgriteQ 2024 Kicks off at Expo with 259 Exhibitors

11th Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition (AgriteQ) 2024

The 11th Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition (AgriteQ) 2024 commenced at the Cultural Zone of Expo 2023 Doha in Al Bidda Park with the participation of 259 exhibitors. This event aims to showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovations to enhance Qatar's agricultural sector, which has experienced a remarkable 98 percent growth in local vegetable production over the past five years.

Organized by the Ministry of Municipality and held under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the week-long exhibition was inaugurated by Minister of Municipality H E Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah. Dignitaries present at the opening event included ministers, deputy speaker of the Shura Council, and other prominent figures.

In addition to the significant international presence, the exhibition saw substantial Qatari participation, with 108 local agricultural farms, 30 honey beekeepers, and 40 local date farms presenting high-quality produce for sale. This event serves as a platform to promote advancements in agriculture and contribute to the growth of the sector in Qatar.

During the opening ceremony, the Minister of Municipality highlighted a 98 percent increase in local vegetable production over the past five years, attributing it to both state support and the efforts of farmers. The utilization of greenhouse technology resulted in a 35% growth in cultivated areas, contributing to a rise in the self-sufficiency rate of local vegetables from 24% in 2017 to 42% in 2023, marking a 75% increase.

Qatar has achieved full self-sufficiency in fresh milk, dairy products, and fresh poultry products. Additionally, the self-sufficiency rate for table egg production rose from approximately 14% in 2017 to about 37% in 2023, a substantial increase of over 164%. The self-sufficiency rate in fresh red meat increased from 13% in 2017 to approximately 19% at present.

The Minister emphasized the significant progress in agricultural, livestock, and fisheries production in recent years, crediting the government's consistent support for this vital sector. Initiatives implemented by the Ministry of Municipality over the past five years, as part of its strategic plan, aimed at contributing to food security, efficient resource management, and maintaining robust food safety standards.

Affirming Qatar's commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and enhancing productivity aligns with the Third National Development Strategy, marking the final stage toward realizing the goals of the Qatar National Vision. The annual AgriteQ event serves as a crucial platform for showcasing global agricultural techniques, technologies, and innovations, underscoring the state's profound interest in this sector.

Following the exhibition's official opening, the Minister of Municipality and other government officials toured its sections and the pavilions of participating countries and entities. They expressed admiration for the progress witnessed in Qatar's agriculture sector. AgriteQ 2024, with increased local farm participation, particularly in premium and organic vegetable offerings, features separate markets for vegetables, dates, and honey. Special events like a sheep auction, plant nursery competitions for designing home gardens, and the display of modern agricultural technologies aim to support local farmers, improve the country's agriculture sector, and achieve food self-sufficiency and security.

Source: The Peninsula