RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s annual grape production has passed 110,500 tonnes, achieving a self-sufficiency rate of 58 percent, according to the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.
Grapes are cultivated on more than 4,720 hectares in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
As part of the ministry’s harvest season campaign promoting local fruits and their benefits year-round, a recent report highlighted Tabuk as the top grape-producing region in Saudi Arabia, yielding 46,939 tonnes annually.
Qassim, Hail, Asir and other regions also contributed significantly to grape production, SPA said.
Grapes, known for their profitability, ease of cultivation in various soils with minimal water requirements and investment potential, were the focus of the campaign, SPA reported.
The ministry highlighted the fruit’s economic potential and adaptability to various climates in Saudi Arabia, and said that grapes were packed with nutrients and had many health benefits, including preventing cancer and boosting immunity.
The harvest season is from June to September. The ministry’s campaign aims to encourage increased local fruit consumption, to improve fruit quality and support farmers to secure better financial returns.
The ministry aims to ramp up local fruit production, enhance quality and safety standards, and refine marketing strategies for homegrown fruits to empower local farmers and boost their earnings.
