Muscat:The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, hosted the sixth session of the Members' Council of the International Dates Council. The session focused on advancing the palm and dates sector and fostering international cooperation in this field.
According to Oman News Agency, the meeting was attended by several member states and covered a range of organizational and technical topics. It reviewed the Council's annual report, achievements, and plans aimed at supporting and developing the palm and dates sector both regionally and internationally.
Discussions also centered on enhancing cooperation among member states, sharing expertise, and exchanging knowledge, research, and technologies. The goal is to improve the competitiveness of date products and strengthen their presence in global markets. Dr. Saud Hamoud Al Habsi, Oman's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, emphasized the significance of the palm and dates sector as a key element in food security and a vital source of income and employment.
Dr. Al Habsi highlighted that global dates production is approximately 10 million tons annually, with the Middle East and North Africa region producing 80% of this total. He stressed the need to build integrated value chains and open new markets, which will enhance competitiveness and economic returns for producers and investors.
Princess Sarah Bandar Al Saud, Executive Director of the International Dates Council, noted the session's role in continuing collaborative efforts in the sector amidst evolving production and trade dynamics. She underscored the importance of prioritizing international standards to ensure quality and market confidence.
Eng. Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Al Fadhli, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the Members' Council, recognized Oman's efforts in hosting the session. He remarked on the sector's transformation towards maximizing value and enhancing sustainability, highlighting the strategic opportunity to align with global demand trends.
The session underscored the importance of the Council's role in providing crucial data and supporting joint projects. It also emphasized the need for partnerships with the private sector and academic institutions to drive innovation and sustainability within the dates sector.
