Saudi Arabia Targets Localization Of Rose Cultivation To Boost Economy, Exports

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans to localise rose cultivation and production. This initiative aims to satisfy the rising demand in domestic markets, generate employment in agriculture, and tackle the high costs and lower quality of imported roses. Additionally, it seeks to open export markets for Saudi roses in Gulf and Middle Eastern countries, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has introduced several incentives to support this sector's growth. These include financial returns that enhance the economic standing of rose producers. One significant incentive is the success of tissue culture rose cultivation, which aids in developing rose farming while cutting production costs.

Moreover, the ministry offers suitable agricultural land for rose projects at competitive prices. Investment opportunities are also available that leverage the comparative advantages of roses. Loans from the Agricultural Development Fund cover 70% of project costs, further encouraging investment in this sector.

The ministry highlighted the potential use of advanced technologies like hydroponic farming for rose cultivation. Smart systems can also be employed to reduce production and labour costs. These innovations can help produce rare types of roses and varieties in high demand, boosting economic returns from these projects.

Technical support is provided for rose cultivation and production projects. The ministry also automates licensing processes to streamline operations. These measures aim to make rose farming more efficient and profitable.

Economic Impact

This initiative not only aims to meet local market demands but also opens avenues for exporting Saudi roses. This move is expected to contribute significantly to the agricultural sector's growth, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's objectives.

The ministry emphasised investment in comparative advantages and available characteristics for successful rose cultivation projects. By using modern technologies and smart systems, production costs can be reduced while increasing efficiency.

These efforts are expected to create new job opportunities within the agricultural sector. They will also address issues related to the high cost and lower quality of imported roses by promoting locally grown varieties.

This comprehensive approach aims to bolster the economic position of rose producers while contributing to the overall growth of Saudi Arabia's agricultural sector.

With inputs from SPA