TAIF: The second Rose and Aromatic Plants Global Forum in Taif is strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a global hub in the aromatics sector, bringing together 400 participants from 44 countries.
Daily visitor turnout at Taif University reflects growing interest in investing in the rose and aromatic plant sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The forum aims to reinforce Taif’s position as a leading hub for rose and aromatic plant production while promoting related economic and investment opportunities.
Participation from East Asian and African countries was particularly notable, led by the Philippines with 84 participants, followed by Indonesia with 32, Benin with 28, and Thailand with 22.
The forum, running until April 11, also sees strong participation from Arab countries, including Somalia, Sudan, Yemen and Egypt, SPA added.
Its workshops featured 20 experts and speakers from the Kingdom, China and Egypt. The sessions highlighted advances in plant breeding through tissue culture, as well as modern extraction techniques to improve essential oil quality and reduce production losses.
The forum focuses on strengthening the value chain for Taif roses and aromatic plants by supporting farmers, adopting advanced practices and improving product quality to boost global competitiveness and diversify the Kingdom’s non-oil economy.
Forum spokesperson Khadija Abu Al-Naja said that the event served as a comprehensive platform integrating scientific, economic and tourism aspects while showcasing the governorate’s strengths in this field.
