Riyadh Embraces Sustainable Banana Seedling Production
In a move towards sustainability and cost-effectiveness, banana seedlings are increasingly being produced in Saudi Arabia, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, this initiative is making waves in the agricultural sector.
The Kingdom, particularly Jazan, has become a hotspot for producing various banana varieties due to its favorable climate for cultivation. The ministry’s center for plant tissue culture and biotechnology is at the forefront of cultivating high-quality, disease-free seedlings in both greenhouses and open fields, revolutionizing the local agricultural landscape.
This breakthrough not only boosts sustainability and productivity but also attracts investors in tissue culture technology, offering significant economic benefits for the country. With cost savings of up to 25 percent compared to importing seedlings, local production is proving to be a game-changer for the industry.
Looking ahead, the ministry has ambitious plans to plant 45 million fruit trees on agricultural terraces and four million lemon trees using renewable water by 2030. These efforts are part of the Saudi Green Initiative, a collaborative project involving private sector institutions and the Agricultural Development Fund.
By focusing on local production, Saudi Arabia aims to reduce fruit deterioration significantly compared to imported varieties, ensuring fresher and higher-quality produce for consumers. This shift towards sustainable practices is paving the way for a greener and more prosperous future for the Kingdom’s agricultural sector.