RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's grape production surpassed 122,000 tonnes in 2023, reflecting the growth of the local agricultural sector and its ability to meet a big portion of market demands, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported Saturday.
The figure accounts for 66 percent of current market demand in the Kingdom, said the report, citing a statement by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, or MEWA.
MEWA said the Kingdom had more than 7.13 million grape plants during that year, with more than 6.1 million bearing fruit.
Grape farming is considered profitable because of the ease of cultivation in various soils with minimal water requirements and the plant’s adaptabilty to various climates in the Kingdom. (SPA)
In a separate report last year, the ministry listed a grape production area of 4,720 hectares across the Kingdom.
The same report highlighted Tabuk as the top grape-producing region, yielding 46,939 tonnes annually, adding that Qassim, Hail, and Asir also contributed significantly to the national production.
Grape farming is considered profitable because of the ease of cultivation in various soils with minimal water requirements. The plant could easily adapt to the different climates in Saudi Arabia.
To encourage farmers to plant grapes, the ministry has assured its continuing efforts to support and empower them by providing modern technologies, such as smart irrigation systems and organic farming.
The ministry also aims to encourage increased local fruit consumption, saying that grapes are packed with nutrients, and have health benefits.
The harvest season for grapes is from June to September, the ministry said.
