UAE considers mechanism to safeguard food supplies
Authorities plan to eliminate price shocks arising from import dependence
Published: April 26, 2010
Dubai: The UAE will set up a mechanism to stock basic food items as part of a plan to ensure continuous food supplies and price stability in the local market.
The move will help the country to protect residents from price shocks caused by an imbalance in the demand-supply curve that could push prices of essentials to a level beyond the average people's buying capacity.
"The UAE currently relies on imports for up to 85 per cent of its food requirements which cost $2.9 billion (Dh10.6 billion) per annum and furthermore the GCC's dependence on food imports had reached $10 billion by the end of 2008," said Goutam Malhotra, exhibition manager at IIR Middle East, said in a recent statement. IIR Middle East is the organiser of one of the leading agricultural shows in the region.
The UAE consumes 800,000 tonnes of rice of several varieties, all of which is imported from a number of countries. The Ministerial Service Council yesterday approved the Ministry of Economy's proposed plan to set up a strategic food stock, according to WAM.
"The go-ahead signal was given at the council's meeting chaired by Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, in Abu Dhabi yesterday," the report said.
"The move aims to increase the national readiness to face any food shortage in emergency and crisis times, as well as to maintain price stability."
Then UAE is heavily dependent on imported food. Although domestic farming is on the rise, it is not enough to reduce dependence on imports which, analysts say, makes the country vulnerable to international price shocks.
"Although the mechanisms are unclear at this stage, the move is a good one and towards the right direction," said Raju Menon, a business analyst and managing partner at Morison Menon, an investment advisory.
Procurement body
"The government might have to create a federal procurement body, such as a food corporation, and build warehouses to store the basic food items and ensure speedy delivery and sale as and when there is a supply shortfall that could push up prices."
UAE authorities and private investors have been eyeing some agricultural lands in African and Asian countries including Sudan and Pakistan to grow crops and process food for future storage that will enhance the country's food security.
"The land acquisition plan for agriculture in Sudan and Asian countries is a good move and will help the country to develop a complete supply chain."
According to independent reports by the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF) and the Arab Organisation for Agricultural Development (AOAD), Arab countries can only produce 30 per cent to 50 per cent of their cereal, wheat, barley and cooking oil needs.
The difference between imports and exports of food products reached a record high of $23 billion in 2008 to bring the cumulative Arab food shortage to $155.5 billion in 2000-08.
"Many GCC countries are suffering from food shortages with the exception, in some cases, of fish and vegetables. "The difference between what their farms produce and domestic consumer demand has increased considerably since 1990," Malhotra said.
The UAE has resorted to a food security strategy of building a stockpile of 15 basic commodities.
Speaking last December Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, said that the strategy would establish an early warning system for crises and disasters that may affect national food security.
— With inputs from Zaher Bitar, Staff Reporter
* $2.9b cost of UAE food imports per annum
* $10b cost of GCC food imports per annum in 2008
http://gulfnews.com/business/economy/uae-considers-mechanism-to-safeguard-food-supplies-1.617871
Monday, April 26, 2010
Vegetable market raided
Published: Apr 26, 2010 00:08
JEDDAH: Municipality inspectors raided the city's main vegetable and fruit market, arresting 420 illegal residents.
"There were legal actions taken against those violators, and we stressed that in order for food to be sold or displayed in public the necessary licenses have to be obtained," said Nasser Al-Jarallah, a municipal official.
The raid also led to the confiscation of more than 683 food items.
"A majority of people cannot afford to buy food items from the supermarket or local grocery shops," said Abu Abdullah, a local father of three.
"These guys sell vegetables and fruits at much lower prices. You can always bargain with the seller and sometimes you get occasional freebie. It's unfortunate to see all these goods confiscated."
Some have suggested that the municipality should allocate a specific, hygienic place for those traders who sell products on the streets. They should also be encouraged to follow health issues.
http://arabnews.com/saudiarabia/article47246.ece
Published: Apr 26, 2010 00:08
JEDDAH: Municipality inspectors raided the city's main vegetable and fruit market, arresting 420 illegal residents.
"There were legal actions taken against those violators, and we stressed that in order for food to be sold or displayed in public the necessary licenses have to be obtained," said Nasser Al-Jarallah, a municipal official.
The raid also led to the confiscation of more than 683 food items.
"A majority of people cannot afford to buy food items from the supermarket or local grocery shops," said Abu Abdullah, a local father of three.
"These guys sell vegetables and fruits at much lower prices. You can always bargain with the seller and sometimes you get occasional freebie. It's unfortunate to see all these goods confiscated."
Some have suggested that the municipality should allocate a specific, hygienic place for those traders who sell products on the streets. They should also be encouraged to follow health issues.
http://arabnews.com/saudiarabia/article47246.ece
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Crucial PulseNet meeting on food precaution starts today
24 April 2010
MUSCAT: Increasing international trade has enabled food produced in one country to be consumed in different parts of the world, and cause diseases too, if contaminated with a food-borne pathogen.
Therefore, a disease contracted in one part of the world may first become apparent thousands of miles away, and that's where PulseNet which is a network of national and regional laboratory networks dedicated to tracking food-borne infections worldwide plays a vital role in the surveillance and investigation of food-borne illness outbreaks that were previously difficult to detect. Therefore, to discuss the vital issue, PulseNet meeting is being held in the city today and tomorrow.
Through PulseNet, scientists may link cases associated with the same outbreak even if the affected individuals are geographically distant. Outbreaks, along with their sources, can now be identified in a matter of days rather than weeks through utilising standardised laboratory methods and sharing information in real-time. The resulting surveillance provides early warning of food and waterborne disease outbreaks, emerging pathogens, and acts of deliberate release of micro-organisms to food. Thus, PulseNet facilitates early identification of a single or common source of the outbreak and acts as an efficient means of communication between public health laboratories.
All these benefits were the main inspiration behind the establishment of the PulseNet Middle East in December 2006, at WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) in Cairo, Egypt with the aim to support the Food Safety regional plan.
Presently, the network includes public health laboratories and academic and medical institutions from 10 countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region: Bahrain, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
© Times of Oman 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100424051030/Crucial%20PulseNet%20meeting%20on%20food%20precaution%20starts%20today%20%20/
24 April 2010
MUSCAT: Increasing international trade has enabled food produced in one country to be consumed in different parts of the world, and cause diseases too, if contaminated with a food-borne pathogen.
Therefore, a disease contracted in one part of the world may first become apparent thousands of miles away, and that's where PulseNet which is a network of national and regional laboratory networks dedicated to tracking food-borne infections worldwide plays a vital role in the surveillance and investigation of food-borne illness outbreaks that were previously difficult to detect. Therefore, to discuss the vital issue, PulseNet meeting is being held in the city today and tomorrow.
Through PulseNet, scientists may link cases associated with the same outbreak even if the affected individuals are geographically distant. Outbreaks, along with their sources, can now be identified in a matter of days rather than weeks through utilising standardised laboratory methods and sharing information in real-time. The resulting surveillance provides early warning of food and waterborne disease outbreaks, emerging pathogens, and acts of deliberate release of micro-organisms to food. Thus, PulseNet facilitates early identification of a single or common source of the outbreak and acts as an efficient means of communication between public health laboratories.
All these benefits were the main inspiration behind the establishment of the PulseNet Middle East in December 2006, at WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) in Cairo, Egypt with the aim to support the Food Safety regional plan.
Presently, the network includes public health laboratories and academic and medical institutions from 10 countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region: Bahrain, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
© Times of Oman 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100424051030/Crucial%20PulseNet%20meeting%20on%20food%20precaution%20starts%20today%20%20/
Market for local organic produce gets a boost
Demand is increasing, slowly but steadily
Published: 00:00 April 24, 2010
Dubai Shopping for organic food is no longer limited to a few items on a badly stocked shelf. Locally grown produce is making its entrance in most supermarkets — not just the speciality stores — to meet a slowly but steady demand.
The latest initiative was a market held for the first time in Souq Al Bahar in Old Town, giving local organic farmers from the UAE and Oman a chance to sell their produce directly.
Baker & Spice, a restaurant in Souq Al Bahar that serves what is in season locally and within the region to minimise its carbon footprint, was behind the market, which was held yesterday between 11am and 5pm.
Currently in season are tomatoes, aubergines, courgettes, fennel, strawberries, lettuce, rocket — local and wild — broccoli, corn and potato.
Farmers from five farms in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, brought with them native and other varieties of fruit and vegetables that are in season. All profit went directly to Al Foa farm, Mazaraa Organic Farm and Dar Al Fatah Farm from Abu Dhabi, Salata Farms from Ras Al Khaimah, and farmers in Oman.
Yael Mejia, a food consultant, said the market will hopefully become a regular event outside Baker & Spice.
"This is the first opportunity for residents of Dubai and their families to get close to the wonderful produce grown under our noses, and to remind us that fresh produce tastes far better. Once you know what is on offer, I am convinced it will change the way you eat".
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/market-for-local-organic-produce-gets-a-boost-1.616843
Demand is increasing, slowly but steadily
Published: 00:00 April 24, 2010
Dubai Shopping for organic food is no longer limited to a few items on a badly stocked shelf. Locally grown produce is making its entrance in most supermarkets — not just the speciality stores — to meet a slowly but steady demand.
The latest initiative was a market held for the first time in Souq Al Bahar in Old Town, giving local organic farmers from the UAE and Oman a chance to sell their produce directly.
Baker & Spice, a restaurant in Souq Al Bahar that serves what is in season locally and within the region to minimise its carbon footprint, was behind the market, which was held yesterday between 11am and 5pm.
Currently in season are tomatoes, aubergines, courgettes, fennel, strawberries, lettuce, rocket — local and wild — broccoli, corn and potato.
Farmers from five farms in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, brought with them native and other varieties of fruit and vegetables that are in season. All profit went directly to Al Foa farm, Mazaraa Organic Farm and Dar Al Fatah Farm from Abu Dhabi, Salata Farms from Ras Al Khaimah, and farmers in Oman.
Yael Mejia, a food consultant, said the market will hopefully become a regular event outside Baker & Spice.
"This is the first opportunity for residents of Dubai and their families to get close to the wonderful produce grown under our noses, and to remind us that fresh produce tastes far better. Once you know what is on offer, I am convinced it will change the way you eat".
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/market-for-local-organic-produce-gets-a-boost-1.616843
Kingdom to import wheat from Australia
RIYADH: The Kingdom has modified its wheat-import quality specifications allowing imports from Australia, the world's fourth-largest exporter of the grain, the Australian Embassy announced here Friday.
The latest Saudi tender had a minimum 11.1 percent protein level compared with a minimum last year of 12.5 percent. The tolerance level for the ergot fungus was raised to 0.045 percent.
"The new amendments to the requirements allow lower protein levels and a smaller tolerance for ergot fungus," Michael Kavanagh, commercial counselor of the embassy, told Arab News Friday.
He added that the new changes would permit wheat from western Australia, the country's top grain-exporting region, to take part in tenders issued by Saudi Arabia's Grains Silos and Flour Mills Organization (GSFMO).
Australia has been unable to access the 2.5 million tons a year to the Saudi market. The state produced 8 million tons of wheat in 2009/10. Western Australia is already a major supplier of barley to Saudi Arabia.
The Kingdom opened its doors to wheat imports in 2008 when it introduced a new groundwater conservation policy to cut annual irrigated wheat production. It also has plans to stop growing wheat domestically by spring 2016, and import the grain instead.
"Australian shippers competed in a Saudi Arabia tender this month for 550,000 metric tons, with suppliers from Canada and Germany winning the business," said Tom Puddy, wheat marketing manager for CBH Group's export division.
A global glut of wheat this year has increased price competition.
The Middle Eastern country may import two million tons in 2010-11, according to a report last month by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service.
http://arabnews.com/economy/article46673.ece
RIYADH: The Kingdom has modified its wheat-import quality specifications allowing imports from Australia, the world's fourth-largest exporter of the grain, the Australian Embassy announced here Friday.
The latest Saudi tender had a minimum 11.1 percent protein level compared with a minimum last year of 12.5 percent. The tolerance level for the ergot fungus was raised to 0.045 percent.
"The new amendments to the requirements allow lower protein levels and a smaller tolerance for ergot fungus," Michael Kavanagh, commercial counselor of the embassy, told Arab News Friday.
He added that the new changes would permit wheat from western Australia, the country's top grain-exporting region, to take part in tenders issued by Saudi Arabia's Grains Silos and Flour Mills Organization (GSFMO).
Australia has been unable to access the 2.5 million tons a year to the Saudi market. The state produced 8 million tons of wheat in 2009/10. Western Australia is already a major supplier of barley to Saudi Arabia.
The Kingdom opened its doors to wheat imports in 2008 when it introduced a new groundwater conservation policy to cut annual irrigated wheat production. It also has plans to stop growing wheat domestically by spring 2016, and import the grain instead.
"Australian shippers competed in a Saudi Arabia tender this month for 550,000 metric tons, with suppliers from Canada and Germany winning the business," said Tom Puddy, wheat marketing manager for CBH Group's export division.
A global glut of wheat this year has increased price competition.
The Middle Eastern country may import two million tons in 2010-11, according to a report last month by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service.
http://arabnews.com/economy/article46673.ece
India water crisis laid bare by clash with cola giants
24 April 2010
A pollution fine for Coca-Cola and an order for PepsiCo to cut water use at factories in India have highlighted a conflict between big business and farmers over natural resources.
Last month, a report commissioned by the southern state of Kerala ordered Coca-Cola to pay 47 million dollars in compensation for polluting agricultural land and extracting too much groundwater at a bottling plant.
A similar report submitted at the same time instructed PepsiCo to cut groundwater use by two-thirds at its plant also in Kerala’s Palakkad district.
The twin investigations were ordered by the Kerala government after years of protests by farmers who say industrial projects like those run by the soft drinks giants leave just a small fraction of water for irrigating fields.
“Operating water-guzzling bottling plants in drought-hit areas where farmers do not have access to water is highly unethical and criminal,” said R. Ajayan, who is spearheading the campaign in Kerala.
A report by the World Bank released in March said about 60 percent of aquifers in India would be in a critical condition within 15 years if the trend of indiscriminate exploitation of ground water continued.
Farmers in Kerala close to the Coca-Cola plant, which was only open between 1999 and 2004, say the water table dropped drastically and a sludge containing toxic chemicals dumped by the unit seeped into their soil making it infertile.
Similar accusations have been levelled against Coca-Cola by farmers near bottling plants in the town of Varanasi and on the outskirts of the desert city Jaipur.
“They have ruined our fields completely. We wait and wait for water and what we extract is not even worth feeding the cattle,” said Raghav Govind, a farmer living near the Varanasi plant.
Coca-Cola closed its plant in Kerala after months of angry protests — led by the state’s powerful Communist and anti-American politicians.
Environmentalists say future clashes between farmers and industry will become increasingly fraught due to government failure to regulate the use of water, with the country’s annual consumption expected to almost double by 2050.
Water shortages are one of the biggest issues restricting new towns planned outside fast-growing cities such as the capital New Delhi.
“Fights over water will worsen if India does not define a clear policy on sharing,” said Ashima Roychoudhari, an environmentalist working for the government in New Delhi.
“There has to be a point where we have to start prioritising and rationing water to stop wastage and prevent conflicts.”
Farmers who are against industries such as the bottling plants say their opposition will not end until their demands are met.
“We will not allow factories to take water when communities do not have enough water to sustain their lives. Agriculture is more important than making a fizzy drink,” said Nandlal Master, a community organiser in Varanasi.
Both companies deny all the allegations, which many observers see as politically motivated.
“Based on scientific evaluation, our Palakkad plant operations have not been shown to be the cause of local watershed issues,” Coca-Cola said in a statement about its closed unit.
PepsiCo said its plant was a model factory and one of the most water efficient examples of its type.
“Through innovative recycling and recharging techniques, the plant has been able to save about 200 million litres of water in the last four years and has also brought down the water usage by 60 percent,” it said.
Kerala’s minister for water, N.K Premchandran, who heads the panel that issued the damning reports, vowed to pressure the companies to act — though the fines are not legally binding as they have not been imposed by the courts.
“In the case of Coca-Cola, they will have to allocate compensation to the farmers, and PepsiCo should install water meters at their bottling plant to check their daily consumption,” he said.
“Granting agricultural land for the Coca-Cola plant was a mistake. At that point we did not want to miss the industrialisation bus, but now we have to protect the environment,” he told AFP.
Premchandran said the government would not order the PepsiCo plant to shut down as it employed more than 3,500 people.
Experts focusing on industrial policy and foreign investment said Indian states often create the problem by hosting lavish trade fairs to attract big companies and offering them concessions to set up businesses.
“It is not the multinational company that decides to open a unit near a farm. The government allocates them land,” said a senior official at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry who declined to be named.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/displayarticle.asp?xfile=data/international/2010/April/international_April1313.xml§ion=international&col=
24 April 2010
A pollution fine for Coca-Cola and an order for PepsiCo to cut water use at factories in India have highlighted a conflict between big business and farmers over natural resources.
Last month, a report commissioned by the southern state of Kerala ordered Coca-Cola to pay 47 million dollars in compensation for polluting agricultural land and extracting too much groundwater at a bottling plant.
A similar report submitted at the same time instructed PepsiCo to cut groundwater use by two-thirds at its plant also in Kerala’s Palakkad district.
The twin investigations were ordered by the Kerala government after years of protests by farmers who say industrial projects like those run by the soft drinks giants leave just a small fraction of water for irrigating fields.
“Operating water-guzzling bottling plants in drought-hit areas where farmers do not have access to water is highly unethical and criminal,” said R. Ajayan, who is spearheading the campaign in Kerala.
A report by the World Bank released in March said about 60 percent of aquifers in India would be in a critical condition within 15 years if the trend of indiscriminate exploitation of ground water continued.
Farmers in Kerala close to the Coca-Cola plant, which was only open between 1999 and 2004, say the water table dropped drastically and a sludge containing toxic chemicals dumped by the unit seeped into their soil making it infertile.
Similar accusations have been levelled against Coca-Cola by farmers near bottling plants in the town of Varanasi and on the outskirts of the desert city Jaipur.
“They have ruined our fields completely. We wait and wait for water and what we extract is not even worth feeding the cattle,” said Raghav Govind, a farmer living near the Varanasi plant.
Coca-Cola closed its plant in Kerala after months of angry protests — led by the state’s powerful Communist and anti-American politicians.
Environmentalists say future clashes between farmers and industry will become increasingly fraught due to government failure to regulate the use of water, with the country’s annual consumption expected to almost double by 2050.
Water shortages are one of the biggest issues restricting new towns planned outside fast-growing cities such as the capital New Delhi.
“Fights over water will worsen if India does not define a clear policy on sharing,” said Ashima Roychoudhari, an environmentalist working for the government in New Delhi.
“There has to be a point where we have to start prioritising and rationing water to stop wastage and prevent conflicts.”
Farmers who are against industries such as the bottling plants say their opposition will not end until their demands are met.
“We will not allow factories to take water when communities do not have enough water to sustain their lives. Agriculture is more important than making a fizzy drink,” said Nandlal Master, a community organiser in Varanasi.
Both companies deny all the allegations, which many observers see as politically motivated.
“Based on scientific evaluation, our Palakkad plant operations have not been shown to be the cause of local watershed issues,” Coca-Cola said in a statement about its closed unit.
PepsiCo said its plant was a model factory and one of the most water efficient examples of its type.
“Through innovative recycling and recharging techniques, the plant has been able to save about 200 million litres of water in the last four years and has also brought down the water usage by 60 percent,” it said.
Kerala’s minister for water, N.K Premchandran, who heads the panel that issued the damning reports, vowed to pressure the companies to act — though the fines are not legally binding as they have not been imposed by the courts.
“In the case of Coca-Cola, they will have to allocate compensation to the farmers, and PepsiCo should install water meters at their bottling plant to check their daily consumption,” he said.
“Granting agricultural land for the Coca-Cola plant was a mistake. At that point we did not want to miss the industrialisation bus, but now we have to protect the environment,” he told AFP.
Premchandran said the government would not order the PepsiCo plant to shut down as it employed more than 3,500 people.
Experts focusing on industrial policy and foreign investment said Indian states often create the problem by hosting lavish trade fairs to attract big companies and offering them concessions to set up businesses.
“It is not the multinational company that decides to open a unit near a farm. The government allocates them land,” said a senior official at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry who declined to be named.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/displayarticle.asp?xfile=data/international/2010/April/international_April1313.xml§ion=international&col=
Farming reforms take root
24 April 2010
DUBAI — An agricultural movement with 7,500 farmers is throbbing in the heart of the Western Region, away from the buzz of cosmopolitan Abu Dhabi. Reforms are giving a new thrust to the sector, making it more attractive for Emirati youth who are joining in large numbers.
This is part of the strategic directives of the government in line with its vision for 2030 and the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) is leading the movement for food security. The authority hopes to complete the implementation of reforms across the emirate in three to four years. The target is to double the market share of local crops from the current 12.5 per cent to 25 per cent.
Mohammed Jalal Al Reyaysa, Director of Public Relations and Communication, ADFA, says, “The plan is to do all that is needed to bring agricultural practices in the emirate on a par with the best in the world through comprehensive public-private partnership and consolidation of the efforts of the various government bodies.”
A new service centre for farmers was opened recently, which is an autonomous body independent of the ADFCA. It will take up activities and offer services to farmers in the Western Region of Al Gharbia. Farmers in other areas are expected to join by the beginning of next year.
The region, for the record, comprises a massive 83 per cent of Abu Dhabi’s land mass and generates about 34 per cent of its GDP.
The government is encouraging the growth of a sustainable and self-reliant agricultural sector in the area with inputs from foreign farming firms to further its development plans.
“A consulting company, GRM, has been hired as a strategy developer to start setting up the first phase of a farmers’ service centre as well as to help us with agriculture-related legislation,” says Al Reyaysa.
The authority has also enlisted the services of FiBL, a leading organisation in farming, to advise it on promoting organic agriculture and thereby expand organic arable land in the emirate. “We are working with different organisations, including international bodies like Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) and the World Bank.”
Environment-friendly agriculture suitable for semi-arid desert areas is the focus of this initiative. At the Liwa Agricultural Exhibition held recently, two agreements for greenhouses over an area of 39,000/600 square metres were signed between three local companies. This has the potential to transform agrarian practices in the region. Courses for farmers are being planned by the new farmers’ centre to increase production and improve the quality of produce.
It does not stop here. The centre will also develop distinctive trademarks for agricultural products from the Capital’s region. About 80 per cent of the high-quality produce from Al Gharbia will be marketed through a chain.
“Customers will recognise food from the region as being of higher quality and freshness than imported food following introduction of the internationally accepted system of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP),” according to the official.
The authority, however, declined to give figures, but says there is no budgetary constraint for the agricultural sector. The emirate’s leadership considers farming vital to national economic development and to cultural heritage of the country. ‘‘The support of the government to the farming sector will never stop,’’ he states.
Diversification of crops is on the cards, from the traditional dates and other fruits and vegetables using new technology. ‘‘We are using technology and new farming techniques to try and cultivate crops that have been found resistant here. We are close to succeeding in cultivating even those vegetables and fruits that were thought impossible to cultivate here before.”
But no movement is complete if it cannot attract the youth. Young, highly educated Emiratis from the region, even graduates from leading institutions from the West are turning to agriculture in hordes.
The signs bode well for a greener landscape in the UAE, with Emirati youth leading the charge to make the desert bloom.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/displayarticle.asp?xfile=data/theuae/2010/April/theuae_April599.xml§ion=theuae&col=
24 April 2010
DUBAI — An agricultural movement with 7,500 farmers is throbbing in the heart of the Western Region, away from the buzz of cosmopolitan Abu Dhabi. Reforms are giving a new thrust to the sector, making it more attractive for Emirati youth who are joining in large numbers.
This is part of the strategic directives of the government in line with its vision for 2030 and the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) is leading the movement for food security. The authority hopes to complete the implementation of reforms across the emirate in three to four years. The target is to double the market share of local crops from the current 12.5 per cent to 25 per cent.
Mohammed Jalal Al Reyaysa, Director of Public Relations and Communication, ADFA, says, “The plan is to do all that is needed to bring agricultural practices in the emirate on a par with the best in the world through comprehensive public-private partnership and consolidation of the efforts of the various government bodies.”
A new service centre for farmers was opened recently, which is an autonomous body independent of the ADFCA. It will take up activities and offer services to farmers in the Western Region of Al Gharbia. Farmers in other areas are expected to join by the beginning of next year.
The region, for the record, comprises a massive 83 per cent of Abu Dhabi’s land mass and generates about 34 per cent of its GDP.
The government is encouraging the growth of a sustainable and self-reliant agricultural sector in the area with inputs from foreign farming firms to further its development plans.
“A consulting company, GRM, has been hired as a strategy developer to start setting up the first phase of a farmers’ service centre as well as to help us with agriculture-related legislation,” says Al Reyaysa.
The authority has also enlisted the services of FiBL, a leading organisation in farming, to advise it on promoting organic agriculture and thereby expand organic arable land in the emirate. “We are working with different organisations, including international bodies like Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) and the World Bank.”
Environment-friendly agriculture suitable for semi-arid desert areas is the focus of this initiative. At the Liwa Agricultural Exhibition held recently, two agreements for greenhouses over an area of 39,000/600 square metres were signed between three local companies. This has the potential to transform agrarian practices in the region. Courses for farmers are being planned by the new farmers’ centre to increase production and improve the quality of produce.
It does not stop here. The centre will also develop distinctive trademarks for agricultural products from the Capital’s region. About 80 per cent of the high-quality produce from Al Gharbia will be marketed through a chain.
“Customers will recognise food from the region as being of higher quality and freshness than imported food following introduction of the internationally accepted system of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP),” according to the official.
The authority, however, declined to give figures, but says there is no budgetary constraint for the agricultural sector. The emirate’s leadership considers farming vital to national economic development and to cultural heritage of the country. ‘‘The support of the government to the farming sector will never stop,’’ he states.
Diversification of crops is on the cards, from the traditional dates and other fruits and vegetables using new technology. ‘‘We are using technology and new farming techniques to try and cultivate crops that have been found resistant here. We are close to succeeding in cultivating even those vegetables and fruits that were thought impossible to cultivate here before.”
But no movement is complete if it cannot attract the youth. Young, highly educated Emiratis from the region, even graduates from leading institutions from the West are turning to agriculture in hordes.
The signs bode well for a greener landscape in the UAE, with Emirati youth leading the charge to make the desert bloom.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/displayarticle.asp?xfile=data/theuae/2010/April/theuae_April599.xml§ion=theuae&col=
Public agencies tackle water conservation
23 April 2010
AMMAN -- Public sector representatives on Thursday drew up action plans to implement long-term comprehensive water conservation programmes in their respective institutions.
In a workshop organised by the Ministry of Water and Irrigation in cooperation with the USAID-funded IDARA Project yesterday, participants were acquainted with the recommendations of the national Water Demand Management (WDM) Policy.
"The workshops enable local government staff to tailor their respective water conservation plans to the challenges in their particular community by identifying what areas of the WDM policy can be applied," Jamal Hijazi, head of the WDM unit at the Ministry of Water and Irrigation.
He added that local experts in water management briefed participants, who represent institutions affiliated with the ministries of industry and trade and housing and public works, on water conservation methods and processes.
Experts in the workshop highlighted several measures to limit water consumption in Jordan, such as applying state-of-the-art water conservation technologies and enforcing appropriate legislation to reduce water loss.
Munjid Sharif, IDARA representative, underlined the importance of conserving water in reducing energy consumption, indicating that nearly 20 per cent of the energy in the Kingdom is lost in water use, pumping and transportation.
"We all, irrespective of our area of work, need to take the responsibility in reducing water use," Sharif stressed, calling for incorporating water-saving methods in building codes.
According to government figures, water loss, a key challenge facing water authorities in Jordan, costs the Kingdom around JD100 million annually.
A recent study conducted by the Department of Statistics (DoS) showed that the demand for water in the Kingdom's various sectors rose by 16.8 per cent between 1999 and 2008. Water demand for domestic purposes reached 315 million cubic metres (mcm) in 2008 compared to 231mcm in 1999, an increase of 36.2 per cent, according to the DoS.
© Jordan Times 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100423075951/Public%20agencies%20tackle%20water%20conservation%20in%20Jordan/
23 April 2010
AMMAN -- Public sector representatives on Thursday drew up action plans to implement long-term comprehensive water conservation programmes in their respective institutions.
In a workshop organised by the Ministry of Water and Irrigation in cooperation with the USAID-funded IDARA Project yesterday, participants were acquainted with the recommendations of the national Water Demand Management (WDM) Policy.
"The workshops enable local government staff to tailor their respective water conservation plans to the challenges in their particular community by identifying what areas of the WDM policy can be applied," Jamal Hijazi, head of the WDM unit at the Ministry of Water and Irrigation.
He added that local experts in water management briefed participants, who represent institutions affiliated with the ministries of industry and trade and housing and public works, on water conservation methods and processes.
Experts in the workshop highlighted several measures to limit water consumption in Jordan, such as applying state-of-the-art water conservation technologies and enforcing appropriate legislation to reduce water loss.
Munjid Sharif, IDARA representative, underlined the importance of conserving water in reducing energy consumption, indicating that nearly 20 per cent of the energy in the Kingdom is lost in water use, pumping and transportation.
"We all, irrespective of our area of work, need to take the responsibility in reducing water use," Sharif stressed, calling for incorporating water-saving methods in building codes.
According to government figures, water loss, a key challenge facing water authorities in Jordan, costs the Kingdom around JD100 million annually.
A recent study conducted by the Department of Statistics (DoS) showed that the demand for water in the Kingdom's various sectors rose by 16.8 per cent between 1999 and 2008. Water demand for domestic purposes reached 315 million cubic metres (mcm) in 2008 compared to 231mcm in 1999, an increase of 36.2 per cent, according to the DoS.
© Jordan Times 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100423075951/Public%20agencies%20tackle%20water%20conservation%20in%20Jordan/
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Europe ash cloud dents Gulf food supply
Published: Apr 22, 2010
DUBAI: A Gulf Arab airline ditched a massive cargo of fresh fish and the desert region's supermarkets are fretting over fruit and vegetable imports trapped in a backlog of flights created by Europe's ash cloud.
As European air space reopens to flights that were closed by the cloud of volcanic ash which drifted over from Iceland, retailers and consumers in Gulf Arab countries are literally taking stock as airlines scramble to shift a backlog of cargo and passengers that could take days or weeks to clear.
"The situation is really bad," said Gapesh Gerash, manager at Dubai-based Barakat Vegetables and Fruits, which imports 2,000 kg (4,409 lb) in air freight from Europe four times a week.
The ash cloud highlights the heavy dependence on food imports from abroad for the Gulf's nationals and the foreign expatriates seeking a taste of home, from imported Dutch tomatoes to French cheeses and Belgian chocolates.
Gulf supermarkets do rely in large part on Africa and Asia, but those imports cannot entirely make up for emerging shortages in European food supplies, especially for consumers seeking Western goods.
"We import the majority of our food from Europe, and right now the only option is some charter flights, but they are charging double the normal rate," Gerash said.
Gulf Arab airlines could lose $15 million a day over European cargo and passenger flight disruptions, said Abdul Wahab Teffaha, head of the Arab Air Carriers Organization.
"The economic value is going to be astronomical," he said.
A planeload of more than 100 tons of fish due to be exported to Europe on Dubai government-owned Emirates, the Gulf Arab region's largest airline, had to be frozen by owners due to flight cancellations, the carrier said.
Emirates, which is losing $10 million a day due to ash disruptions, said on Tuesday that 2,000 tons of cargo had been disrupted. Gulf states rely heavily on food imports from Asia, Europe, the United States and Africa, and have recently resorted to buying farmland in developing nations to ensure food security.
"From a food and drink point of view, the fact that ... most of the Gulf region ... is so reliant on imports to meet domestic demand means it is more affected by the ash cloud in terms of stocking shelf space at grocery stores," said Shonil Chande, food and drink analyst at Business Monitor International.
Spinneys, one of the biggest supermarket chains in the region, was running out of berries and said it saw a shortage in short shelf-life fresh foods from Europe and the United States.
In Kuwait, customers at one large supermarket chain were unhappy, and sometimes even rude, about not getting their regular doses of European cheese and chocolates.
"We get calls from dissatisfied customers. They complain and ask when it is coming," said Firas Hamdan, chief commercial officer of The Sultan Center.
Restaurants were also feeling the pinch, with luxury chain hotel Fairmont saying it was running short on seafood brought in via Europe and had to improvise.
"From a food and beverage standpoint, we have been affected in terms of supplies coming in. We started using regional suppliers more," a spokeswoman for Fairmont Dubai said.
Dubai, the Gulf region's trade and tourism hub, handled around 172,000 tons of cargo in February.
Michael Meagher, of Saudi Arabian Airlines cargo division, said cargo operations had been hit, with the carrier running a significant and growing backlog in Europe.
Gulf hoteliers, however, have experienced a surge in occupancy from thousands of stranded passengers since the ash cloud appeared, especially in areas close to airport.
"We have been having too many bookings. Our occupancy rate is around 90 percent when normally it is 60 percent this time of year," a representative at Dubai's Millennium hotel said.
The five-star Bustan Rotana said occupancy had shot to 100 percent from 60 percent in the past few days. "Flight delays were good news for us," a hotel manager said.
Dubai's Al-Nassma, the world's first brand of chocolate made with camel milk, said its sales were up at least 10 percent as stranded passengers indulged in the delicacy.
"There are more tourists here so we are selling more chocolates," General Manager Martin Van Almsick said.
http://arabnews.com/economy/article45865.ece
Published: Apr 22, 2010
DUBAI: A Gulf Arab airline ditched a massive cargo of fresh fish and the desert region's supermarkets are fretting over fruit and vegetable imports trapped in a backlog of flights created by Europe's ash cloud.
As European air space reopens to flights that were closed by the cloud of volcanic ash which drifted over from Iceland, retailers and consumers in Gulf Arab countries are literally taking stock as airlines scramble to shift a backlog of cargo and passengers that could take days or weeks to clear.
"The situation is really bad," said Gapesh Gerash, manager at Dubai-based Barakat Vegetables and Fruits, which imports 2,000 kg (4,409 lb) in air freight from Europe four times a week.
The ash cloud highlights the heavy dependence on food imports from abroad for the Gulf's nationals and the foreign expatriates seeking a taste of home, from imported Dutch tomatoes to French cheeses and Belgian chocolates.
Gulf supermarkets do rely in large part on Africa and Asia, but those imports cannot entirely make up for emerging shortages in European food supplies, especially for consumers seeking Western goods.
"We import the majority of our food from Europe, and right now the only option is some charter flights, but they are charging double the normal rate," Gerash said.
Gulf Arab airlines could lose $15 million a day over European cargo and passenger flight disruptions, said Abdul Wahab Teffaha, head of the Arab Air Carriers Organization.
"The economic value is going to be astronomical," he said.
A planeload of more than 100 tons of fish due to be exported to Europe on Dubai government-owned Emirates, the Gulf Arab region's largest airline, had to be frozen by owners due to flight cancellations, the carrier said.
Emirates, which is losing $10 million a day due to ash disruptions, said on Tuesday that 2,000 tons of cargo had been disrupted. Gulf states rely heavily on food imports from Asia, Europe, the United States and Africa, and have recently resorted to buying farmland in developing nations to ensure food security.
"From a food and drink point of view, the fact that ... most of the Gulf region ... is so reliant on imports to meet domestic demand means it is more affected by the ash cloud in terms of stocking shelf space at grocery stores," said Shonil Chande, food and drink analyst at Business Monitor International.
Spinneys, one of the biggest supermarket chains in the region, was running out of berries and said it saw a shortage in short shelf-life fresh foods from Europe and the United States.
In Kuwait, customers at one large supermarket chain were unhappy, and sometimes even rude, about not getting their regular doses of European cheese and chocolates.
"We get calls from dissatisfied customers. They complain and ask when it is coming," said Firas Hamdan, chief commercial officer of The Sultan Center.
Restaurants were also feeling the pinch, with luxury chain hotel Fairmont saying it was running short on seafood brought in via Europe and had to improvise.
"From a food and beverage standpoint, we have been affected in terms of supplies coming in. We started using regional suppliers more," a spokeswoman for Fairmont Dubai said.
Dubai, the Gulf region's trade and tourism hub, handled around 172,000 tons of cargo in February.
Michael Meagher, of Saudi Arabian Airlines cargo division, said cargo operations had been hit, with the carrier running a significant and growing backlog in Europe.
Gulf hoteliers, however, have experienced a surge in occupancy from thousands of stranded passengers since the ash cloud appeared, especially in areas close to airport.
"We have been having too many bookings. Our occupancy rate is around 90 percent when normally it is 60 percent this time of year," a representative at Dubai's Millennium hotel said.
The five-star Bustan Rotana said occupancy had shot to 100 percent from 60 percent in the past few days. "Flight delays were good news for us," a hotel manager said.
Dubai's Al-Nassma, the world's first brand of chocolate made with camel milk, said its sales were up at least 10 percent as stranded passengers indulged in the delicacy.
"There are more tourists here so we are selling more chocolates," General Manager Martin Van Almsick said.
http://arabnews.com/economy/article45865.ece
US’s Geithner, Gates to launch agri-fund for poor
22 April 2010,
WASHINGTON - U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and Microsoft Corp co-founder Bill Gates said on Wednesday they will launch a global agricultural fund to boost food production in the developing world.
In an opinion piece, Gates and Geithner said the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program, which will be launched in Washington on Thursday, will help farmers grow more food and earn more from farming.
“As the world’s population increases in the coming years and as changes in the climate create water shortages that destroy crops, the number of people without adequate access to food is likely to increase,” Gates and Geithner wrote in the Wall Street Journal.
“As that happens, small farmers and people living in poverty will need the most help,” they wrote.
The fund was first proposed by the United States at a meeting of the Group of Eight in Italy in 2008, where it urged countries to pool their resources to invest in agriculture in the world’s poorest countries.
Gates and Geithner said commitments for the fund total nearly $900 million from now until 2012. They said Canada, Spain and South Korea would contribute funding.
The fund, which will be supervised by the World Bank, will provide financing to poor countries with high levels of food insecurity and have developed sound agricultural plans to boost crop production.
The fund will invest in infrastructure that will link farmers to markets, promote sustainable water-use management, and increase access to better seeds and technologies.
A rise in world food prices in 2008 to record levels highlighted the chronic underinvestment in agriculture in developing countries, where three-quarters of the poor live in rural areas.
Gates’ foundation has long been active in providing funding for projects to increase agricultural production of small-scale farmers in Africa and elsewhere. It has particularly been interested in improving access to food, working closely with the United Nation’s World Food Programme.
The United States is the world’s largest food aid donor. While enough food is produced in the world to end hunger, more than 1 billion people go hungry because they cannot afford to buy food or otherwise cannot access supplies.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticle08.asp?xfile=data/environment/2010/April/environment_April48.xml§ion=environment
22 April 2010,
WASHINGTON - U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and Microsoft Corp co-founder Bill Gates said on Wednesday they will launch a global agricultural fund to boost food production in the developing world.
In an opinion piece, Gates and Geithner said the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program, which will be launched in Washington on Thursday, will help farmers grow more food and earn more from farming.
“As the world’s population increases in the coming years and as changes in the climate create water shortages that destroy crops, the number of people without adequate access to food is likely to increase,” Gates and Geithner wrote in the Wall Street Journal.
“As that happens, small farmers and people living in poverty will need the most help,” they wrote.
The fund was first proposed by the United States at a meeting of the Group of Eight in Italy in 2008, where it urged countries to pool their resources to invest in agriculture in the world’s poorest countries.
Gates and Geithner said commitments for the fund total nearly $900 million from now until 2012. They said Canada, Spain and South Korea would contribute funding.
The fund, which will be supervised by the World Bank, will provide financing to poor countries with high levels of food insecurity and have developed sound agricultural plans to boost crop production.
The fund will invest in infrastructure that will link farmers to markets, promote sustainable water-use management, and increase access to better seeds and technologies.
A rise in world food prices in 2008 to record levels highlighted the chronic underinvestment in agriculture in developing countries, where three-quarters of the poor live in rural areas.
Gates’ foundation has long been active in providing funding for projects to increase agricultural production of small-scale farmers in Africa and elsewhere. It has particularly been interested in improving access to food, working closely with the United Nation’s World Food Programme.
The United States is the world’s largest food aid donor. While enough food is produced in the world to end hunger, more than 1 billion people go hungry because they cannot afford to buy food or otherwise cannot access supplies.
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticle08.asp?xfile=data/environment/2010/April/environment_April48.xml§ion=environment
UAE's fresh water supply drying up
21 April 2010
The natural water resources of the UAE will decrease by 16 per cent in the next decade, requiring the second-largest build-up of desalination plants in the world, a new forecast says.
The UAE's water resources per person are already the second smallest in the Middle East after Kuwait's. But demand is soaring, with the country expected to increase desalination capacity by 76 per cent by 2016, to 14.1 million cubic metres a day, says an estimate by Nomura Securities, the Japanese investment bank.
The UAE's multibillion-dollar expansion of desalination capacity over six years is second only to Saudi Arabia's, and about equal to the combined increase of Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain.
Most of the water consumed in the UAE - 82.8 per cent - is used in agriculture, a practice that experts in the country have criticised. But in the future, industry, which today accounts for only 1.7 per cent of water consumption, could be one of the main users.
"We believe the main factor determining future demand for water is likely to be industrial usage," Nomura analysts said in their outlook. "In most MENA countries it is less than 50 cubic metres per capita, substantially lower than the [Group of 8 countries'] average of 450 cubic metres."
The UAE is investing heavily in water-intensive basic industries including metals and petrochemicals as part of efforts to diversify its economy away from oil exports.
The country is already one of the biggest consumers of water in the world in spite of its scarce resources, with per capita consumption in Abu Dhabi alone at 550 litres a day, according to a study by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.
The UAE relies on desalination to supply 98 per cent of its water, Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, the Minister of Environment and Water said last year.
Nomura's report came after a forecast last month by Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Company that showed water demand in the emirate alone increasing by 70 per cent by 2016 from last year's levels.
Industrial projects will account for 9.9 per cent of the increase, it said.
The country's huge consumption of water was not surprising, given that most of the water is produced as a by-product of heat from the country's power stations, said Hans Altmann, the regional director for Techem, an international metering and water management company.
The cost of building the power stations to keep up with electricity consumption is huge, Mr Altmann said, but the marginal cost of producing water was insignificant.
"If you want to eliminate the root cause of this problem, it's energy and where it's consumed: the air-conditioning," he said. "Due to many things, we don't have any incentives to save water."
But the almost complete reliance on desalination presents additional strategic risks, Mr Altmann said. "The total water reserve in the UAE is only five days. This is well known," he said. "It's a matter of national security."
Abu Dhabi and Dubai have both announced plans to expand water storage.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421072536/Drying%20Up%20/
21 April 2010
The natural water resources of the UAE will decrease by 16 per cent in the next decade, requiring the second-largest build-up of desalination plants in the world, a new forecast says.
The UAE's water resources per person are already the second smallest in the Middle East after Kuwait's. But demand is soaring, with the country expected to increase desalination capacity by 76 per cent by 2016, to 14.1 million cubic metres a day, says an estimate by Nomura Securities, the Japanese investment bank.
The UAE's multibillion-dollar expansion of desalination capacity over six years is second only to Saudi Arabia's, and about equal to the combined increase of Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain.
Most of the water consumed in the UAE - 82.8 per cent - is used in agriculture, a practice that experts in the country have criticised. But in the future, industry, which today accounts for only 1.7 per cent of water consumption, could be one of the main users.
"We believe the main factor determining future demand for water is likely to be industrial usage," Nomura analysts said in their outlook. "In most MENA countries it is less than 50 cubic metres per capita, substantially lower than the [Group of 8 countries'] average of 450 cubic metres."
The UAE is investing heavily in water-intensive basic industries including metals and petrochemicals as part of efforts to diversify its economy away from oil exports.
The country is already one of the biggest consumers of water in the world in spite of its scarce resources, with per capita consumption in Abu Dhabi alone at 550 litres a day, according to a study by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.
The UAE relies on desalination to supply 98 per cent of its water, Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, the Minister of Environment and Water said last year.
Nomura's report came after a forecast last month by Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Company that showed water demand in the emirate alone increasing by 70 per cent by 2016 from last year's levels.
Industrial projects will account for 9.9 per cent of the increase, it said.
The country's huge consumption of water was not surprising, given that most of the water is produced as a by-product of heat from the country's power stations, said Hans Altmann, the regional director for Techem, an international metering and water management company.
The cost of building the power stations to keep up with electricity consumption is huge, Mr Altmann said, but the marginal cost of producing water was insignificant.
"If you want to eliminate the root cause of this problem, it's energy and where it's consumed: the air-conditioning," he said. "Due to many things, we don't have any incentives to save water."
But the almost complete reliance on desalination presents additional strategic risks, Mr Altmann said. "The total water reserve in the UAE is only five days. This is well known," he said. "It's a matter of national security."
Abu Dhabi and Dubai have both announced plans to expand water storage.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421072536/Drying%20Up%20/
Tehran, Bangui to Bolster Agricultural Cooperation
21 April 2010
Central African Republic's Foreign Minister Antoine Gambi met with Iranian Agricultural Jihad Minister Sadeq Khalilian in Tehran.
Both officials called for establishing agricultural relations between the two countries, Mehr News Agency reported on Monday.
Khalilian pointed out that the Islamic Republic was committed to enhance its relations with all African countries, adding that Iran was prepared to carry out infrastructural and agricultural projects there.
The high-ranking Iranian official said that Iran is willing to help the Central African Republic in developing agricultural mechanization, constructing small dams, reservoirs and water canals, preserving jungles and pasture lands, processing food and agricultural products and ecotourism.
Antoine Gambi stated that his country will devise a road map for all-out relations with Iranian nation.
The African diplomat went on to say that his country is aware of Iran's high capacity in industrial, agricultural and technical fields, adding that there are great opportunities for the public and private sectors of the two countries to expand cooperation.
© Iran Daily 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421052843/Tehran%2C%20Bangui%20to%20Bolster%20Agricultural%20Cooperation
21 April 2010
Central African Republic's Foreign Minister Antoine Gambi met with Iranian Agricultural Jihad Minister Sadeq Khalilian in Tehran.
Both officials called for establishing agricultural relations between the two countries, Mehr News Agency reported on Monday.
Khalilian pointed out that the Islamic Republic was committed to enhance its relations with all African countries, adding that Iran was prepared to carry out infrastructural and agricultural projects there.
The high-ranking Iranian official said that Iran is willing to help the Central African Republic in developing agricultural mechanization, constructing small dams, reservoirs and water canals, preserving jungles and pasture lands, processing food and agricultural products and ecotourism.
Antoine Gambi stated that his country will devise a road map for all-out relations with Iranian nation.
The African diplomat went on to say that his country is aware of Iran's high capacity in industrial, agricultural and technical fields, adding that there are great opportunities for the public and private sectors of the two countries to expand cooperation.
© Iran Daily 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421052843/Tehran%2C%20Bangui%20to%20Bolster%20Agricultural%20Cooperation
Kuwait: Cabinet, Parliament blamed for price rise
21 April 2010
KUWAIT: The Cabinet and Parliament share responsibility over the problem of price rise, said participants at a seminar held recently by the National Forum in Farwaniya. The event was held to discuss increasing living costs.
The state's failure in imposing effective supervision over prices, proves its failure to protect consumers in Kuwait from steep price rise and monopoly, noted the participants. They further blamed the parliament's members for addressing issues that form the main points of concerns for citizens.
And while explaining the troubles that citizens face in regards to increasing prices in various fields that include education, accommodation, health as well as food supplies, reported Al-Qabas. The participants pointed out several reasons that escalated the problem like the spread of unemployment.
Meanwhile, in a poll on Al-Watan Daily's website, 63 percent were in favor of the idea that the government should release the names of those with dual citizenships, reported Al-Watan. Of those who participated, 27 percent rejected the idea and 10 percent considered the issue unimportant. The poll, posted from April 11-18, is part of a weekly survey proposed by the website and featured participation from more than 7,500 visitors.
© Kuwait Times 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421064720/Kuwait%3A%20Cabinet%2C%20Parliament%20blamed%20for%20price%20rise/
21 April 2010
KUWAIT: The Cabinet and Parliament share responsibility over the problem of price rise, said participants at a seminar held recently by the National Forum in Farwaniya. The event was held to discuss increasing living costs.
The state's failure in imposing effective supervision over prices, proves its failure to protect consumers in Kuwait from steep price rise and monopoly, noted the participants. They further blamed the parliament's members for addressing issues that form the main points of concerns for citizens.
And while explaining the troubles that citizens face in regards to increasing prices in various fields that include education, accommodation, health as well as food supplies, reported Al-Qabas. The participants pointed out several reasons that escalated the problem like the spread of unemployment.
Meanwhile, in a poll on Al-Watan Daily's website, 63 percent were in favor of the idea that the government should release the names of those with dual citizenships, reported Al-Watan. Of those who participated, 27 percent rejected the idea and 10 percent considered the issue unimportant. The poll, posted from April 11-18, is part of a weekly survey proposed by the website and featured participation from more than 7,500 visitors.
© Kuwait Times 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421064720/Kuwait%3A%20Cabinet%2C%20Parliament%20blamed%20for%20price%20rise/
"From Crop to Cup" - Coffee Planet confirms access to its own coffee plantations.
Coffee Planet confirms its position as No.1 specialty coffee provider
20 April 2010
Dubai UAE: Coffee Planet LLC, the successful Dubai based coffee solutions provider, announced a further extension to its business with complete access to its own coffee growing plantations in Central America through the Coffee Planet Corporation of Honduras. Already the leading provider of specialty grade coffees in the Middle East, Coffee Planet has become a ground breaking model for the coffee industry in the region as they continue to develop holistic coffee solutions as they deliver the product from the source to the end consumer. Coffee Planet is expanding the availability of its high quality and fresh coffee across the UAE and the rest of the Middle East.
"This is a tremendously exciting day for us. It's a dream come true to be sourcing our green coffee beans directly from our own plantations. Only by being in control of your raw product can you guarantee the quality of the end product that the customer drinks from their cup" said Mr. Richard Jones, Managing Director, Coffee Planet.
Social improvement is one of the main driving forces of the Coffee Planet team. Working ethically with farmers, paying a fair price for their product and investing time and effort with them in quality improvements is more than just a label on their packaging. Coffee Planet believes that to trade fairly, it is important to get involved directly with the farmers and experience firsthand the struggles they endure on a daily basis. A lot more work goes into fair trade than just working with external organizations that provide supposed Fair Trade Products.
"We're very proud to be associated with such a wonderful coffee growing nation like Honduras. So little is known about the country and yet they are such brilliant people who grow some amazing coffees. Coffee is their livelihood and we hope to be able to increase awareness of the country, its people and to help make improvements to the working conditions of the community," said Richard Jones on his return from Honduras.
An important factor in Coffee Planet's success to date is their state of the art roasting plant that ensures fresh, high quality coffee always reaches the end consumer. Coffee Planet has now taken this a step further by growing their own coffee, which they blend, roast and deliver straight to our mugs!
Coffee Planet has built itself a very strong reputation since its inception - "We just wanted to be different to everybody else and we did that by starting out in fuel station convenience store and offering high quality self-serve and fresh coffee drinks. It's about convenience and availability...and of course, a great cup of coffee," said Richard Jones.
As well as over 130 fuel stations, Coffee Planet now provides its own roasted coffee to a vast array of top hotels and restaurants, offices and a growing number of its own Coffee Planet branded retail outlets across the UAE. Coffee Planet is continuing to build their brand awareness and position themselves as the No 1 coffee provider in the Middle East.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100420055656/From%20Crop%20to%20Cup%20-%20Coffee%20Planet
%20confirms%20access%20to%20its%20own%20coffee
%20plantations%20/
Coffee Planet confirms its position as No.1 specialty coffee provider
20 April 2010
Dubai UAE: Coffee Planet LLC, the successful Dubai based coffee solutions provider, announced a further extension to its business with complete access to its own coffee growing plantations in Central America through the Coffee Planet Corporation of Honduras. Already the leading provider of specialty grade coffees in the Middle East, Coffee Planet has become a ground breaking model for the coffee industry in the region as they continue to develop holistic coffee solutions as they deliver the product from the source to the end consumer. Coffee Planet is expanding the availability of its high quality and fresh coffee across the UAE and the rest of the Middle East.
"This is a tremendously exciting day for us. It's a dream come true to be sourcing our green coffee beans directly from our own plantations. Only by being in control of your raw product can you guarantee the quality of the end product that the customer drinks from their cup" said Mr. Richard Jones, Managing Director, Coffee Planet.
Social improvement is one of the main driving forces of the Coffee Planet team. Working ethically with farmers, paying a fair price for their product and investing time and effort with them in quality improvements is more than just a label on their packaging. Coffee Planet believes that to trade fairly, it is important to get involved directly with the farmers and experience firsthand the struggles they endure on a daily basis. A lot more work goes into fair trade than just working with external organizations that provide supposed Fair Trade Products.
"We're very proud to be associated with such a wonderful coffee growing nation like Honduras. So little is known about the country and yet they are such brilliant people who grow some amazing coffees. Coffee is their livelihood and we hope to be able to increase awareness of the country, its people and to help make improvements to the working conditions of the community," said Richard Jones on his return from Honduras.
An important factor in Coffee Planet's success to date is their state of the art roasting plant that ensures fresh, high quality coffee always reaches the end consumer. Coffee Planet has now taken this a step further by growing their own coffee, which they blend, roast and deliver straight to our mugs!
Coffee Planet has built itself a very strong reputation since its inception - "We just wanted to be different to everybody else and we did that by starting out in fuel station convenience store and offering high quality self-serve and fresh coffee drinks. It's about convenience and availability...and of course, a great cup of coffee," said Richard Jones.
As well as over 130 fuel stations, Coffee Planet now provides its own roasted coffee to a vast array of top hotels and restaurants, offices and a growing number of its own Coffee Planet branded retail outlets across the UAE. Coffee Planet is continuing to build their brand awareness and position themselves as the No 1 coffee provider in the Middle East.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100420055656/From%20Crop%20to%20Cup%20-%20Coffee%20Planet
%20confirms%20access%20to%20its%20own%20coffee
%20plantations%20/
Minister stresses Egypt's right to Nile water in Parliament
20 April 2010
CAIRO: Egypt won't sign any agreements that would hamper its "historical rights" to Nile water, the Egyptian Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources told Parliament Monday.
"If Nile basin countries unilaterally sign a water-sharing agreement, it will be in violation of international law and the Nile basin initiative which was signed in 1959," Minister Mohamed Nasr Eldin Allam said.
"Egypt will not be obliged by this agreement which will not be legal," he added.
Minister of Legal Affairs and Parliamentary Councils Mofid Shehab reiterated that international laws governing international rivers prohibit any of the countries through which the river passes from any act that would hamper navigation, affect its water or threaten the interests of other countries.
Shehab referred to numerous agreements struck with all Nile basin countries -- 1891, 1906, 1925, 1929, 1959 and 1991 -- that continue to be valid regardless of regime change.
In 1929 Egypt had signed an agreement with Britain as a representative of the occupied Nile basin countries, which gives Egypt 55.5 billion cubic meters of water each year -- 87 percent of the Nile's flow -- and Sudan 18.5 billion cubic meters.
"Egypt reserves the right to take whatever course it sees suitable to safeguard its share," Allam said.
"If the Nile basin countries unilaterally sign the agreement, this would be considered a declaration of the Nile Basin Initiative's death," he said.
But many maintain that diplomacy remains the only viable solution to any conflicts arising over water rights.
During the parliamentary session Zakaria Azmi, chief of the presidential staff, objected to National Democratic Party MP Abdel-Rehim El-Ghoul's statement that future wars would be over water and "we welcome this war if it is imposed to us."
Azmi explained that "this is a serious issue which should be handled with diplomacy." In response, El-Ghoul retracted his statement and asked to delete it from the PA records.
Parliament Speaker Fathi Sorour commented that the relationship between Nile basin countries must be conducted in a spirit of brotherhood.
During negotiations held in Sharm El-Sheikh last week, however, the 10 African governments failed to reach an agreement.
In addition to maintaining its current share of Nile water, Egypt insisted on having veto power over any new irrigation projects undertaken by the other nine countries.
The Sub-Saharan African states have rejected the clause and called for the signing of a revised agreement.
By Magdy Samaan
© Daily News Egypt 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421050115/Minister%20stresses%20Egypt%27s%20right%20to%20Nile%20water%20in%20Parliament/
20 April 2010
CAIRO: Egypt won't sign any agreements that would hamper its "historical rights" to Nile water, the Egyptian Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources told Parliament Monday.
"If Nile basin countries unilaterally sign a water-sharing agreement, it will be in violation of international law and the Nile basin initiative which was signed in 1959," Minister Mohamed Nasr Eldin Allam said.
"Egypt will not be obliged by this agreement which will not be legal," he added.
Minister of Legal Affairs and Parliamentary Councils Mofid Shehab reiterated that international laws governing international rivers prohibit any of the countries through which the river passes from any act that would hamper navigation, affect its water or threaten the interests of other countries.
Shehab referred to numerous agreements struck with all Nile basin countries -- 1891, 1906, 1925, 1929, 1959 and 1991 -- that continue to be valid regardless of regime change.
In 1929 Egypt had signed an agreement with Britain as a representative of the occupied Nile basin countries, which gives Egypt 55.5 billion cubic meters of water each year -- 87 percent of the Nile's flow -- and Sudan 18.5 billion cubic meters.
"Egypt reserves the right to take whatever course it sees suitable to safeguard its share," Allam said.
"If the Nile basin countries unilaterally sign the agreement, this would be considered a declaration of the Nile Basin Initiative's death," he said.
But many maintain that diplomacy remains the only viable solution to any conflicts arising over water rights.
During the parliamentary session Zakaria Azmi, chief of the presidential staff, objected to National Democratic Party MP Abdel-Rehim El-Ghoul's statement that future wars would be over water and "we welcome this war if it is imposed to us."
Azmi explained that "this is a serious issue which should be handled with diplomacy." In response, El-Ghoul retracted his statement and asked to delete it from the PA records.
Parliament Speaker Fathi Sorour commented that the relationship between Nile basin countries must be conducted in a spirit of brotherhood.
During negotiations held in Sharm El-Sheikh last week, however, the 10 African governments failed to reach an agreement.
In addition to maintaining its current share of Nile water, Egypt insisted on having veto power over any new irrigation projects undertaken by the other nine countries.
The Sub-Saharan African states have rejected the clause and called for the signing of a revised agreement.
By Magdy Samaan
© Daily News Egypt 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100421050115/Minister%20stresses%20Egypt%27s%20right%20to%20Nile%20water%20in%20Parliament/
Imports from Europe hit
20 April 2010
DOHA: Imports of fresh fruit and vegetable from Holland and Britain have been hit hard as air cargo is not arriving here since last weekend due to the disruption of air traffic in northern Europe.
A major outlet of fresh European vegetables and fruits said yesterday that the stocks that had arrived before the disruption in Europe, caused by a cloud of volcanic ash, were running out fast. "We have stocks left for another three to four days. That's all. Fresh stocks are not coming," an official from the outlet told this newspaper.
According to him, his outlet gets weekly supplies of these items of short shelf life, including European cheese, through Qatar Airways cargo services.
The official, however, said European exporters were in regular touch with them and updating them almost daily on the air traffic situation in their part of the world.
European vegetables and fruits here are expensive and the demand is mainly from Westerners. "If the stocks end we would have no option but to pray that air cargo services between the Gulf and Europe resume," said the official.
Fresh fruits and vegetables that are imported from Saudi Arabia, India, Jordan and Lebanon, among other countries, are much cheaper so demand for them is very high. Their supplies remain unaffected.
Meanwhile, an air cargo service provider told this newspaper that items other than perishables like fruits, vegetables and cheese that are imported from northern Europe include foodstuff that has longer shelf life, medical equipment and spare parts.
"Well, we hope that the air traffic disruptions in northern Europe wouldn't last long," said an official from the cargo company.
© The Peninsula 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100420032435/Qatar%20imports%20from%20Europe%20hit%20/
20 April 2010
DOHA: Imports of fresh fruit and vegetable from Holland and Britain have been hit hard as air cargo is not arriving here since last weekend due to the disruption of air traffic in northern Europe.
A major outlet of fresh European vegetables and fruits said yesterday that the stocks that had arrived before the disruption in Europe, caused by a cloud of volcanic ash, were running out fast. "We have stocks left for another three to four days. That's all. Fresh stocks are not coming," an official from the outlet told this newspaper.
According to him, his outlet gets weekly supplies of these items of short shelf life, including European cheese, through Qatar Airways cargo services.
The official, however, said European exporters were in regular touch with them and updating them almost daily on the air traffic situation in their part of the world.
European vegetables and fruits here are expensive and the demand is mainly from Westerners. "If the stocks end we would have no option but to pray that air cargo services between the Gulf and Europe resume," said the official.
Fresh fruits and vegetables that are imported from Saudi Arabia, India, Jordan and Lebanon, among other countries, are much cheaper so demand for them is very high. Their supplies remain unaffected.
Meanwhile, an air cargo service provider told this newspaper that items other than perishables like fruits, vegetables and cheese that are imported from northern Europe include foodstuff that has longer shelf life, medical equipment and spare parts.
"Well, we hope that the air traffic disruptions in northern Europe wouldn't last long," said an official from the cargo company.
© The Peninsula 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100420032435/Qatar%20imports%20from%20Europe%20hit%20/
Monday, April 19, 2010
Gov’t hires majority of Agriculture Ministry day labourers
AMMAN –– The government has employed 190 day labourers this week who were laid off by the Agriculture Ministry late last year, according to officials.
According to Mohammad Sneid, president of the public sector day labourers’ committee, the government started hiring the workers three days ago, enlisting their services in the agriculture, education, environment and industrial sectors.
He noted that the fate of the remaining 66 day labourers laid off by the ministry has yet to be determined.
“The remaining labourers are holders of diplomas and bachelor’s degrees and are registered in the Civil Service Bureau… this is why the government decided to postpone hiring them,” Sneid told The Jordan Times on Monday.
“We will not consider the case closed until all unemployed workers are appointed,” he stressed, commending the government’s efforts to address the matter.
Sneid indicated that 130 workers were reinstated at the Agriculture Ministry, adding that that 30 were hired at the Environment Ministry, eight at the Education Ministry and the rest were employed at the Jordan Industrial Estate Corporation.
He highlighted that the workers were hired at the same posts and salaries they received at the time of their dismissal, noting that Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Tawfiq Kreishan is following up on the matter.
The 256 labourers were laid off last December in accordance with a Cabinet decision preventing appointments outside the official payroll.
In August last year, the Cabinet decided to halt any recruitment outside the official payroll and to exempt the ministries of health and education from the decision for 2009 and 2010.
20 April 2010
http://jordantimes.com/?news=25848
AMMAN –– The government has employed 190 day labourers this week who were laid off by the Agriculture Ministry late last year, according to officials.
According to Mohammad Sneid, president of the public sector day labourers’ committee, the government started hiring the workers three days ago, enlisting their services in the agriculture, education, environment and industrial sectors.
He noted that the fate of the remaining 66 day labourers laid off by the ministry has yet to be determined.
“The remaining labourers are holders of diplomas and bachelor’s degrees and are registered in the Civil Service Bureau… this is why the government decided to postpone hiring them,” Sneid told The Jordan Times on Monday.
“We will not consider the case closed until all unemployed workers are appointed,” he stressed, commending the government’s efforts to address the matter.
Sneid indicated that 130 workers were reinstated at the Agriculture Ministry, adding that that 30 were hired at the Environment Ministry, eight at the Education Ministry and the rest were employed at the Jordan Industrial Estate Corporation.
He highlighted that the workers were hired at the same posts and salaries they received at the time of their dismissal, noting that Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Tawfiq Kreishan is following up on the matter.
The 256 labourers were laid off last December in accordance with a Cabinet decision preventing appointments outside the official payroll.
In August last year, the Cabinet decided to halt any recruitment outside the official payroll and to exempt the ministries of health and education from the decision for 2009 and 2010.
20 April 2010
http://jordantimes.com/?news=25848
"Capital Trust" and "Proparco" invest in "Wadi Holdings", a holding company operating in the agricultural and food industries in Egypt through a transaction of 8,5 million dollars
Beirut- April 19, 2010- "Capital Trust" announced today, in cooperation with "Proparco" the French government development arm, part of "L'Agence Française de Développement (AFD)", their investment in "Wadi Holdings", a holding company operating in the agricultural and food industries in Egypt, through an investment of 8,5 million dollars.
Capital Trust stated that its investment fund "EuroMena" has contributed 5.5 million dollars in the Wadi transaction and "Proparco" contributed 3 million dollars.
Wadi Holdings owns 14 subsidiaries operating in the agricultural and food industries with around three thousand and five hundred employees and revenues of around $240 million in 2009.
Wadi Holdings operates in 4 business units. The major unit relates to poultry and focuses on raising chicks of various world breeds and the production of one day old chicks that are sold to farmers to raise them up in order to have table eggs and poultry meat. Wadi Holdings was awarded many prizes in Egypt and the Middle East region, for applying strict bio-security procedures, and for being the leader in the implementation of such procedures.
Wadi Holdings operates as well in the agricultural and food sectors. It focuses on olive and grape plantations and the production of its derivatives such as olive oil, olives, pickles and other products.
Wadi Holdings won several awards and certificates (ISO and HACCP) after having participated in many competitions organized by the World Council of olive oil.
Wadi Holdings is actively involved as well in the production and trading of feed, in addition to the production of glass containers, which is partially used for canning its own food products, with many expansion plans set in this field. Wadi Holdings aims to be the leader in the production of glass containers in Egypt in 2010 especially after the operation of new furnaces with the capacity of 240 tons per day. Mr. Moussa Freiji, Wadi Holdings
President, Mr. Tony Freiji, Executive Director and Mr. Ramzi Nasrallah, Chief Financial Officer, welcomed the new investors and confirmed that Wadi Holdings is a leader in the agro-industrial sector on the local and the regional levels and established an extensive presence in the region especially in Lebanon and Sudan."
Euromena and Proparco will assist Wadi Holdings in its expansion and growth plans. Mr. Gilles de Clerck, Senior Manager of the EuroMena Funds stated that Wadi Holdings offers significant growth opportunities in line with EuroMena investment strategy which aims to develop and consolidate the promising sectors and industries in the Middle East and North Africa.
Mr. Guillaume Mortelier, an official of Proparco, declared that he is very comfortable with the said partnership and added: "We believe it is a successful operation, considering that Wadi Holdings benefits from an excellent track-record since its foundation and opens up very promising opportunities." He pointed out that Proparco is seeking to fund a number of expansion projects related to the group, including the acquisition and development of agricultural lands in Sudan, with the development dimension of Proparco's mission and objectives.
Mr. Gilles de Clerck stated that the partnership with Freiji and Nasrallah, two lebanese families and majority owners of Wadi Holdings, will pave the way for other investments in the field of the agriculture and food industries." He added that the investment of EuroMena in Wadi Holdings is a starting point for other projects and investments in the field of agricultural and food Industries, especially that a high demand is expected in the coming years."
He added that Wadi Holdings is characterized by the diversity of the sectors it operates in while providing a wide range of exit strategies.
Mr. Romen Mathieu, Managing Director of EuroMena, pointed out that EuroMena aims as usual to exit from the investments within 3 to 5 years. He noted as well that one of the exit strategies available for EuroMena investment from Wadi Holdings is listing the company on the Egyptian Stock Exchange in the coming years then offering it for public subscription, through an initial public offering (IPO).
Mr. Mathieu confirmed that the investment in Wadi Holdings is the last one for "EuroMena I" thus the fund would have fully invested its capital in less than 4 years and declared that very promising prospects are expected for the new Capital Trust Fund, "EuroMena II". The EuroMena Fund is a $65 million private equity fund sponsored by Capital Trust Group, dedicated to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. EuroMena was established in March 2006 with the goal of developing and consolidating promising sectors and industries in the MENA region. EuroMena was successfully invested in diverse sectors including construction materials, banking, financial services, printing and packaging food, IT, insurance, etc in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine. EuroMena II was raised in 2009 with commitments of $100 million to be invested in the MENA region.
PROPARCO is a Development Financial Institution partly held by Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and private shareholders from the North and South. PROPARCO's mission is to be a catalyst for private investment in developing countries which targets growth, sustainable development and reaching the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). PROPARCO finances operations which are economically viable, socially equitable, environmentally sustainable and financially profitable. Its sectoral strategy is tailored to the level of a country's development and focuses on the productive sector, financial systems, infrastructure and equity investment. PROPARCO invests in a geographical area ranging from major emerging countries to the poorest countries, in particular in Africa, and has high-level requirements in terms of Social and Environmental Responsibility. PROPARCO has a wide range of financial instruments to meet the specific needs of private investors in developing countries (loans, equity, guarantees and financial engineering). PROPARCO has a team of 130 people, eleven regional offices and is supported by 50 AFD Group agencies worldwide. In 2009 PROPARCO granted €1, 1 billion for over sixty projects in more than thirty countries.
-Ends-
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100419080539/%22Capital%20Trust%22%20and%20%22Proparco%22%20invest%20in%20%20%22Wadi%20Holdings%22%2C%20a%20holding%20company%20%20operating%20in%20the%20agricultural%20and
%20food%20industries%20in%20Egypt%20through%20a
%20transaction%20of%208%2C5%20million%20dollars/
Beirut- April 19, 2010- "Capital Trust" announced today, in cooperation with "Proparco" the French government development arm, part of "L'Agence Française de Développement (AFD)", their investment in "Wadi Holdings", a holding company operating in the agricultural and food industries in Egypt, through an investment of 8,5 million dollars.
Capital Trust stated that its investment fund "EuroMena" has contributed 5.5 million dollars in the Wadi transaction and "Proparco" contributed 3 million dollars.
Wadi Holdings owns 14 subsidiaries operating in the agricultural and food industries with around three thousand and five hundred employees and revenues of around $240 million in 2009.
Wadi Holdings operates in 4 business units. The major unit relates to poultry and focuses on raising chicks of various world breeds and the production of one day old chicks that are sold to farmers to raise them up in order to have table eggs and poultry meat. Wadi Holdings was awarded many prizes in Egypt and the Middle East region, for applying strict bio-security procedures, and for being the leader in the implementation of such procedures.
Wadi Holdings operates as well in the agricultural and food sectors. It focuses on olive and grape plantations and the production of its derivatives such as olive oil, olives, pickles and other products.
Wadi Holdings won several awards and certificates (ISO and HACCP) after having participated in many competitions organized by the World Council of olive oil.
Wadi Holdings is actively involved as well in the production and trading of feed, in addition to the production of glass containers, which is partially used for canning its own food products, with many expansion plans set in this field. Wadi Holdings aims to be the leader in the production of glass containers in Egypt in 2010 especially after the operation of new furnaces with the capacity of 240 tons per day. Mr. Moussa Freiji, Wadi Holdings
President, Mr. Tony Freiji, Executive Director and Mr. Ramzi Nasrallah, Chief Financial Officer, welcomed the new investors and confirmed that Wadi Holdings is a leader in the agro-industrial sector on the local and the regional levels and established an extensive presence in the region especially in Lebanon and Sudan."
Euromena and Proparco will assist Wadi Holdings in its expansion and growth plans. Mr. Gilles de Clerck, Senior Manager of the EuroMena Funds stated that Wadi Holdings offers significant growth opportunities in line with EuroMena investment strategy which aims to develop and consolidate the promising sectors and industries in the Middle East and North Africa.
Mr. Guillaume Mortelier, an official of Proparco, declared that he is very comfortable with the said partnership and added: "We believe it is a successful operation, considering that Wadi Holdings benefits from an excellent track-record since its foundation and opens up very promising opportunities." He pointed out that Proparco is seeking to fund a number of expansion projects related to the group, including the acquisition and development of agricultural lands in Sudan, with the development dimension of Proparco's mission and objectives.
Mr. Gilles de Clerck stated that the partnership with Freiji and Nasrallah, two lebanese families and majority owners of Wadi Holdings, will pave the way for other investments in the field of the agriculture and food industries." He added that the investment of EuroMena in Wadi Holdings is a starting point for other projects and investments in the field of agricultural and food Industries, especially that a high demand is expected in the coming years."
He added that Wadi Holdings is characterized by the diversity of the sectors it operates in while providing a wide range of exit strategies.
Mr. Romen Mathieu, Managing Director of EuroMena, pointed out that EuroMena aims as usual to exit from the investments within 3 to 5 years. He noted as well that one of the exit strategies available for EuroMena investment from Wadi Holdings is listing the company on the Egyptian Stock Exchange in the coming years then offering it for public subscription, through an initial public offering (IPO).
Mr. Mathieu confirmed that the investment in Wadi Holdings is the last one for "EuroMena I" thus the fund would have fully invested its capital in less than 4 years and declared that very promising prospects are expected for the new Capital Trust Fund, "EuroMena II". The EuroMena Fund is a $65 million private equity fund sponsored by Capital Trust Group, dedicated to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. EuroMena was established in March 2006 with the goal of developing and consolidating promising sectors and industries in the MENA region. EuroMena was successfully invested in diverse sectors including construction materials, banking, financial services, printing and packaging food, IT, insurance, etc in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine. EuroMena II was raised in 2009 with commitments of $100 million to be invested in the MENA region.
PROPARCO is a Development Financial Institution partly held by Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and private shareholders from the North and South. PROPARCO's mission is to be a catalyst for private investment in developing countries which targets growth, sustainable development and reaching the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). PROPARCO finances operations which are economically viable, socially equitable, environmentally sustainable and financially profitable. Its sectoral strategy is tailored to the level of a country's development and focuses on the productive sector, financial systems, infrastructure and equity investment. PROPARCO invests in a geographical area ranging from major emerging countries to the poorest countries, in particular in Africa, and has high-level requirements in terms of Social and Environmental Responsibility. PROPARCO has a wide range of financial instruments to meet the specific needs of private investors in developing countries (loans, equity, guarantees and financial engineering). PROPARCO has a team of 130 people, eleven regional offices and is supported by 50 AFD Group agencies worldwide. In 2009 PROPARCO granted €1, 1 billion for over sixty projects in more than thirty countries.
-Ends-
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100419080539/%22Capital%20Trust%22%20and%20%22Proparco%22%20invest%20in%20%20%22Wadi%20Holdings%22%2C%20a%20holding%20company%20%20operating%20in%20the%20agricultural%20and
%20food%20industries%20in%20Egypt%20through%20a
%20transaction%20of%208%2C5%20million%20dollars/
Manna to succeed Baroum as Savola CEO
19 April 2010
JEDDAH: Abdul Raouf Manna has been named to succeed Sami Baroum as chief executive officer (CEO) of the Savola Group. He will replace Baroum from July 1.
The announcement on Sunday came a day after Baroum surprised the corporate world by announcing that he would step down from June 30. He gave no reason for his sudden move. However, a source at Savola
was quoted as saying that he was "resigning for personal motives. His family is in the United States and he has grown tired of frequent trips to America."
Manna has held several senior positions in the group during the past 15 years.
Meanwhile, Savola, with a wide portfolio of businesses including edible oils, sugar, plastic packaging, retail and real estate, on Sunday posted a jump of 104 percent in net profit during the first quarter, almost half of which came from non-recurring capital gains, beating analysts' forecasts.
The group made a net profit of SR394 million ($105.1 million) in the three months ending March, compared to SR193 million in the same period the year earlier, it said in a statement.
Excluding capital gains from the flotation earlier this year of fast-food chain Herfy, Savola's net profit stands at SR198 million, which is 10 percent above the company's own projections for the first quarter of 2010.
Savola said it expected to make a net profit of SR205 million in the second quarter which is 3.5 percent below its profits a year ago.
By SHAHEEN NAZAR
© Arab News 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100419060151/Manna%20to%20succeed%20Baroum%20as%20Savola%20CEO/
19 April 2010
JEDDAH: Abdul Raouf Manna has been named to succeed Sami Baroum as chief executive officer (CEO) of the Savola Group. He will replace Baroum from July 1.
The announcement on Sunday came a day after Baroum surprised the corporate world by announcing that he would step down from June 30. He gave no reason for his sudden move. However, a source at Savola
was quoted as saying that he was "resigning for personal motives. His family is in the United States and he has grown tired of frequent trips to America."
Manna has held several senior positions in the group during the past 15 years.
Meanwhile, Savola, with a wide portfolio of businesses including edible oils, sugar, plastic packaging, retail and real estate, on Sunday posted a jump of 104 percent in net profit during the first quarter, almost half of which came from non-recurring capital gains, beating analysts' forecasts.
The group made a net profit of SR394 million ($105.1 million) in the three months ending March, compared to SR193 million in the same period the year earlier, it said in a statement.
Excluding capital gains from the flotation earlier this year of fast-food chain Herfy, Savola's net profit stands at SR198 million, which is 10 percent above the company's own projections for the first quarter of 2010.
Savola said it expected to make a net profit of SR205 million in the second quarter which is 3.5 percent below its profits a year ago.
By SHAHEEN NAZAR
© Arab News 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100419060151/Manna%20to%20succeed%20Baroum%20as%20Savola%20CEO/
Brazil's fresh fruit imports to the Middle East rise 8.4 per cent to USD 9.31 million in 2009
19 April 2010
World's 3rd largest fruit producer to feature exotic products at Brasil Trade Middle East 2010
Brazil exported fresh fruits worth USD 9.31 million to the Arab region in 2009, representing an 8.4 increase over 2008 trade. Brazilian producers will highlight popular exotic fruits this year during the Brasil Trade Middle East 2010 multi-industry trade show taking place from May 9 to 11, 2010 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City.
Brazil, the third largest producer of fruit in the world, harvests around 43 million tons of the commodity yearly. Its main Arab importers include Lebanon, the UAE, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Algeria. Grapes, melons, apples and mangoes accounted for most of Brazil's fruit shipments to the Middle East in 2009. Participants at Brasil Trade Middle East 2010 will discuss the growing demand for the South American country's exotic fruits, which are produced under strict environmental and preservation standards. They will also address key issues such as the need for more direct export routes to the Arab markets.
"Fruits imported from Brazil are very popular in the Middle East due to their freshness and variety. Countries such as the UAE are placing greater emphasis on health and nutrition and so we can expect exotic Brazilian fruits such as the açaà berry, which has high levels of antioxidants, to gain strong consumer patronage. Throughout the Brasil Trade Middle East guests and potential buyers will have a clearer picture of just how diverse and healthy Brazilian fruits are," said Alessandro Teixeira, President, Apex-Brasil.
Participating Brazilian fruit companies will particularly promote fruit juices, Amazonian fruits and fruit pulps, dehydrated fruit juice, and even chocolate candies with Amazonian fruit fillings during Brasil Trade Middle East.
Over 30 exporters representing more than 100 leading Brazilian producers and manufacturers will showcase products and services in construction and construction materials, furniture and decoration, and auto parts during the three-day trade expo, which is being organized by the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil).
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100419084021/Brazil%27s%20fresh%20fruit%20imports%20to%20the%20Middle%20East%20rise%208.4%25/
19 April 2010
World's 3rd largest fruit producer to feature exotic products at Brasil Trade Middle East 2010
Brazil exported fresh fruits worth USD 9.31 million to the Arab region in 2009, representing an 8.4 increase over 2008 trade. Brazilian producers will highlight popular exotic fruits this year during the Brasil Trade Middle East 2010 multi-industry trade show taking place from May 9 to 11, 2010 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City.
Brazil, the third largest producer of fruit in the world, harvests around 43 million tons of the commodity yearly. Its main Arab importers include Lebanon, the UAE, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Algeria. Grapes, melons, apples and mangoes accounted for most of Brazil's fruit shipments to the Middle East in 2009. Participants at Brasil Trade Middle East 2010 will discuss the growing demand for the South American country's exotic fruits, which are produced under strict environmental and preservation standards. They will also address key issues such as the need for more direct export routes to the Arab markets.
"Fruits imported from Brazil are very popular in the Middle East due to their freshness and variety. Countries such as the UAE are placing greater emphasis on health and nutrition and so we can expect exotic Brazilian fruits such as the açaà berry, which has high levels of antioxidants, to gain strong consumer patronage. Throughout the Brasil Trade Middle East guests and potential buyers will have a clearer picture of just how diverse and healthy Brazilian fruits are," said Alessandro Teixeira, President, Apex-Brasil.
Participating Brazilian fruit companies will particularly promote fruit juices, Amazonian fruits and fruit pulps, dehydrated fruit juice, and even chocolate candies with Amazonian fruit fillings during Brasil Trade Middle East.
Over 30 exporters representing more than 100 leading Brazilian producers and manufacturers will showcase products and services in construction and construction materials, furniture and decoration, and auto parts during the three-day trade expo, which is being organized by the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil).
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100419084021/Brazil%27s%20fresh%20fruit%20imports%20to%20the%20Middle%20East%20rise%208.4%25/
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Swaziland Keen on Agro Cooperation
Iran Daily
18 April 2010
Foreign Minister of Swaziland Lutfo Dlamini on Saturday urged expansion of two-way agricultural cooperation.
In a meeting with Minister of Agricultural Jahad Sadeq Khalilian in Tehran, Dlamini added that the standpoint of the leader and Iranian officials toward Africa is praiseworthy.
"It is appropriate that the Iranian government and people consider bolstering ties with Swaziland as a role model of cooperation with African countries," he noted, IRNA reported.
He referred to two-way cooperation in foodstuff security and in attaining self-reliance as well as joint investment ventures in his country and recalled mechanization of irrigation system is among the needs of Swaziland's agro sector.
Khalilian said improving relations with African countries is a priority of Iran.
"In tandem with this policy, the Agricultural Jihad Ministry seeks expansion of economic collaboration in the agro sector, especially regarding infrastructural and developmental projects, with African states," he added.
The Iranian minister also said Iran can transfer its experiences in terms of agro production, self-reliance and foodstuff security to Swaziland.
The Kingdom of Swaziland is located in the south of African continent. It has a population of 1.5 million and extends over an area of 17,364 square kilometers.
© Iran Daily 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100418051327/Swaziland%20Keen%20on%20Agro%20Cooperation%20with%20Iran/
Iran Daily
18 April 2010
Foreign Minister of Swaziland Lutfo Dlamini on Saturday urged expansion of two-way agricultural cooperation.
In a meeting with Minister of Agricultural Jahad Sadeq Khalilian in Tehran, Dlamini added that the standpoint of the leader and Iranian officials toward Africa is praiseworthy.
"It is appropriate that the Iranian government and people consider bolstering ties with Swaziland as a role model of cooperation with African countries," he noted, IRNA reported.
He referred to two-way cooperation in foodstuff security and in attaining self-reliance as well as joint investment ventures in his country and recalled mechanization of irrigation system is among the needs of Swaziland's agro sector.
Khalilian said improving relations with African countries is a priority of Iran.
"In tandem with this policy, the Agricultural Jihad Ministry seeks expansion of economic collaboration in the agro sector, especially regarding infrastructural and developmental projects, with African states," he added.
The Iranian minister also said Iran can transfer its experiences in terms of agro production, self-reliance and foodstuff security to Swaziland.
The Kingdom of Swaziland is located in the south of African continent. It has a population of 1.5 million and extends over an area of 17,364 square kilometers.
© Iran Daily 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100418051327/Swaziland%20Keen%20on%20Agro%20Cooperation%20with%20Iran/
Farming in Qatar remains challenging: Businessman
18 April 2010
DOHA: A number of farms in the north of the country are being turned into livestock raising facilities since their owners do not see any economic benefit in pursuing cultivation.
Farming in Qatar remains a challenging business not only because of harsh climatic conditions and lack of water but also because state backing to the sector is nil or negligible.
And whatever little quantities of vegetables are grown in the country also face a serious threat as farmers are switching fast to animal feed cultivation due to skyrocketing prices.
Animal feed commands almost three times the price in Qatar as in other GCC countries due to rapidly growing demand.
Says Mohamed Al Obaidly, who owns the country’s oldest agriculture-linked business: “In the absence of state support and agricultural research centres, people who are into farming have been moving into other businesses.”
There are no nurseries where quality seeds and saplings are available and then, there are no research and development centres devoted to agriculture, he says.
Al Obaidly is of the opinion that if the government is serious about backing the agricultural sector, it must set up an agency as a first step and this agency must actively coordinate with other state agencies to provide the necessary support to farmers.
According to Mubarak Al Hajri, who owns farms and is into other businesses as well, licensing procedures to set up an agricultural business are time-consuming and entail a lot of paperwork.
“These procedures should be simplified in the first place and then, research centres should be set up and enough incentives should be provided to those who want to pursue agriculture,” says Al Hajri.
He argues that new technologies are available which can help desert land support cultivation.
Then, there are desert plants that can grow in desert climate. “We must focus on such plants. They need brackish water which we have aplenty. These plants can be used to turn our coastline green,” argues Al Hajri.
http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display_news.asp?section=Local_News&subsection=Qatar+News&month=April2010&file=Local_News2010041821450.xml
18 April 2010
DOHA: A number of farms in the north of the country are being turned into livestock raising facilities since their owners do not see any economic benefit in pursuing cultivation.
Farming in Qatar remains a challenging business not only because of harsh climatic conditions and lack of water but also because state backing to the sector is nil or negligible.
And whatever little quantities of vegetables are grown in the country also face a serious threat as farmers are switching fast to animal feed cultivation due to skyrocketing prices.
Animal feed commands almost three times the price in Qatar as in other GCC countries due to rapidly growing demand.
Says Mohamed Al Obaidly, who owns the country’s oldest agriculture-linked business: “In the absence of state support and agricultural research centres, people who are into farming have been moving into other businesses.”
There are no nurseries where quality seeds and saplings are available and then, there are no research and development centres devoted to agriculture, he says.
Al Obaidly is of the opinion that if the government is serious about backing the agricultural sector, it must set up an agency as a first step and this agency must actively coordinate with other state agencies to provide the necessary support to farmers.
According to Mubarak Al Hajri, who owns farms and is into other businesses as well, licensing procedures to set up an agricultural business are time-consuming and entail a lot of paperwork.
“These procedures should be simplified in the first place and then, research centres should be set up and enough incentives should be provided to those who want to pursue agriculture,” says Al Hajri.
He argues that new technologies are available which can help desert land support cultivation.
Then, there are desert plants that can grow in desert climate. “We must focus on such plants. They need brackish water which we have aplenty. These plants can be used to turn our coastline green,” argues Al Hajri.
http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display_news.asp?section=Local_News&subsection=Qatar+News&month=April2010&file=Local_News2010041821450.xml
Friday, April 16, 2010
Back to nature the organic way
The farm has been a long time coming. Through her business partnership with Abdullah Bel Habb, an Emirati with a farming background among several other business ventures, they have worked hard so that Nazwa Organic Farm sells directly to its customers — cutting out the supermarkets.
Published: 00:00 April 17, 2010
Dubai: "I love Brussels sprouts and I'm determined to succeed," says Elena Kinane, general manager of Nazwa Organic Farm located outside Dubai on the Hatta road.
Even at nine months pregnant and waiting for the imminent arrival of her second child, Kinane, 35, of German-Armenian origin is excited to point out leaves of basil, rocket and romaine lettuce, cabbage, capsicum and cherry tomatoes, biting into whatever looks ripe — while most mothers-to-be would be resting with their feet up.
Delicious organic cherry tomatoes
"This didn't happen over night," she is quick to add walking around what is now a 42-acre organic farm producing around 65 types of fruit and vegetables at 7am.
"It took 10 years to build. Through trial and error, we are adding slowly to our selection of vegetables to provide the community of Dubai with organic produce," said Kinane.
The farm has been a long time coming. Through her business partnership with Abdullah Bel Habb, an Emirati with a farming background among several other business ventures, they have worked hard so that Nazwa Organic Farm sells directly to its customers — cutting out the supermarkets.
"We have had offers to package our lettuce and put it in supermarkets but I don't want to put my leaves in a bag and ship them around. We want to keep the food mileage low. We have one small shop and minimise packaging," said Kinane.
Up to 300kg of vegetables are produced on the farm including corn, red cabbage, potatoes, courgettes, aubergines, carrots, lettuces and herbs, and sold in a small shop near Al Manara Street in Umm Suqeim. Delivery in Arabian Ranches is free.
"We harvest every day. As you can see the tomatoes are growing at different rates on the vine," she said, lifting up a bunch of bright red cherry tomatoes hanging next to small green barely ripened ones.
"It's a typical sign of organic farming that they're all at different stages of growth. Traditional farms produce crops that are the same size and grow at the same rate."
While Brussels sprouts may not be everyone's favourite vegetable, they are on her ‘to grow' list — along with hopefully figs, lemons and mangoes in the future. For now the focus is on leafy green vegetables and herbs, and watermelons and melons.
"We're trying to build up our strawberries. So far we get about 25 punnets a week. But we do get people that come to the shop and get upset because they are not available. You can't predict anything with organic produce and we really want people to understand that," said Kinane.
The farm was certified organic in September 2009 by the Ministry of Environment and Water. Tests were carried out on the soil at ground level, 60cm depth and 120cm depth. Crop samples were tested during three different stages of growth to pick up any traces of chemicals — of which there were none.
The farm consists of 45 ‘grow' houses — sturdy square-shaped hangars with industrial fans at one end for ventilation and nine older traditional greenhouses.
"We're 100 per cent chemical free but we do regulate the temperature and the humidity in the grow houses. We can play with the conditions to provide an optimum environment for things to grow," said Kinane. "We never grow the same crop on the same field twice in a row. We leave the [sandy] soil to rest and lay down manure before we sow."
Is organic better?
Free range chicken fed on fresh alfalfa leaves
In many agriculture areas, pollution of groundwater with synthetic fertilisers and pesticides is a major problem. As the use of these is prohibited in organic agriculture, they are replaced by organic fertilizers such as compost or animal manure.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) the use of genetically modified organisms (GMO) within organic systems is not permitted during any stage of organic food production, processing or handling. As the potential impact of GMOs to both the environment and health is not entirely understood, organic agriculture is taking the precautionary approach and choosing to encourage natural biodiversity.
Benefits: Fruitful venture
* Delicious organic cherry tomatoes.
* Yellow peppers being cultivated at Nazwa Organic Farm.
* Organic basil in full bloom.
* Honeydew melon at the farm.
* Organic corn, red cabbage and broccoli grow in the open.
* Free range chicken fed on fresh alfalfa leaves.
Farming process
1 The fields are cleared of roots of anything that was previously grown and left to rest and breathe. To be certified, the soil is tested at ground level, 60cm depth and 120cm depth to make sure no pesticides are in the soil.
2 Fertilisation prepares the soil for crops. Compost made up of leaves, foliage, roots or rotten crops is left to decompose. This compost is used as fertiliser and is laid out and mixed in to the soil, watered and left for 2-3 weeks to replenish itself.
3 All crops are grown in soil. Hydroculture where crops are grown in water is not done at Nazwa Organic Farm. Companion Planting is when certain crops are grown together to minimise disease and insects.
4 Crops are watered and as they ripen, harvested letting other crop ripen in their own time.
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/back-to-nature-the-organic-way-1.613413
The farm has been a long time coming. Through her business partnership with Abdullah Bel Habb, an Emirati with a farming background among several other business ventures, they have worked hard so that Nazwa Organic Farm sells directly to its customers — cutting out the supermarkets.
Published: 00:00 April 17, 2010
Dubai: "I love Brussels sprouts and I'm determined to succeed," says Elena Kinane, general manager of Nazwa Organic Farm located outside Dubai on the Hatta road.
Even at nine months pregnant and waiting for the imminent arrival of her second child, Kinane, 35, of German-Armenian origin is excited to point out leaves of basil, rocket and romaine lettuce, cabbage, capsicum and cherry tomatoes, biting into whatever looks ripe — while most mothers-to-be would be resting with their feet up.
Delicious organic cherry tomatoes
"This didn't happen over night," she is quick to add walking around what is now a 42-acre organic farm producing around 65 types of fruit and vegetables at 7am.
"It took 10 years to build. Through trial and error, we are adding slowly to our selection of vegetables to provide the community of Dubai with organic produce," said Kinane.
Yellow peppers being cultivated at Nazwa Organic Farm
The farm has been a long time coming. Through her business partnership with Abdullah Bel Habb, an Emirati with a farming background among several other business ventures, they have worked hard so that Nazwa Organic Farm sells directly to its customers — cutting out the supermarkets.
"We have had offers to package our lettuce and put it in supermarkets but I don't want to put my leaves in a bag and ship them around. We want to keep the food mileage low. We have one small shop and minimise packaging," said Kinane.
Up to 300kg of vegetables are produced on the farm including corn, red cabbage, potatoes, courgettes, aubergines, carrots, lettuces and herbs, and sold in a small shop near Al Manara Street in Umm Suqeim. Delivery in Arabian Ranches is free.
"We harvest every day. As you can see the tomatoes are growing at different rates on the vine," she said, lifting up a bunch of bright red cherry tomatoes hanging next to small green barely ripened ones.
"It's a typical sign of organic farming that they're all at different stages of growth. Traditional farms produce crops that are the same size and grow at the same rate."
While Brussels sprouts may not be everyone's favourite vegetable, they are on her ‘to grow' list — along with hopefully figs, lemons and mangoes in the future. For now the focus is on leafy green vegetables and herbs, and watermelons and melons.
Honeydew melon at the farm.
"We're trying to build up our strawberries. So far we get about 25 punnets a week. But we do get people that come to the shop and get upset because they are not available. You can't predict anything with organic produce and we really want people to understand that," said Kinane.
The farm was certified organic in September 2009 by the Ministry of Environment and Water. Tests were carried out on the soil at ground level, 60cm depth and 120cm depth. Crop samples were tested during three different stages of growth to pick up any traces of chemicals — of which there were none.
The farm consists of 45 ‘grow' houses — sturdy square-shaped hangars with industrial fans at one end for ventilation and nine older traditional greenhouses.
"We're 100 per cent chemical free but we do regulate the temperature and the humidity in the grow houses. We can play with the conditions to provide an optimum environment for things to grow," said Kinane. "We never grow the same crop on the same field twice in a row. We leave the [sandy] soil to rest and lay down manure before we sow."
Is organic better?
Organic farming uses methods that are less aggressive on the land and crops as no chemical fertilisers or pesticides are used. Crop rotation ensures that soils are not stripped of their nutrients and is productive for a longer period of time.
In many agriculture areas, pollution of groundwater with synthetic fertilisers and pesticides is a major problem. As the use of these is prohibited in organic agriculture, they are replaced by organic fertilizers such as compost or animal manure.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) the use of genetically modified organisms (GMO) within organic systems is not permitted during any stage of organic food production, processing or handling. As the potential impact of GMOs to both the environment and health is not entirely understood, organic agriculture is taking the precautionary approach and choosing to encourage natural biodiversity.
Benefits: Fruitful venture
* Delicious organic cherry tomatoes.
* Yellow peppers being cultivated at Nazwa Organic Farm.
* Organic basil in full bloom.
* Honeydew melon at the farm.
* Organic corn, red cabbage and broccoli grow in the open.
* Free range chicken fed on fresh alfalfa leaves.
Farming process
1 The fields are cleared of roots of anything that was previously grown and left to rest and breathe. To be certified, the soil is tested at ground level, 60cm depth and 120cm depth to make sure no pesticides are in the soil.
2 Fertilisation prepares the soil for crops. Compost made up of leaves, foliage, roots or rotten crops is left to decompose. This compost is used as fertiliser and is laid out and mixed in to the soil, watered and left for 2-3 weeks to replenish itself.
3 All crops are grown in soil. Hydroculture where crops are grown in water is not done at Nazwa Organic Farm. Companion Planting is when certain crops are grown together to minimise disease and insects.
4 Crops are watered and as they ripen, harvested letting other crop ripen in their own time.
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/back-to-nature-the-organic-way-1.613413
Agricultural indicators on the rise in cultivated areas and milk production
The positive impact of recent rains recorded at the beginning of April on the growth of crops was the focus a work session on Thursday in Tunis.
Mr. Abdessalem Mansour, Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries chaired the event.
According to reports from field visits, undertaken by working groups monitoring cereal crops region, a growth was recorded in 37% of cultivated areas, located in the humid and semi-humid regions.
Works of the working session unveiled the importance to continue operations of irrigation as well as to increase the processing actions against diseases.
In a related event, the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries chaired a second working session on breeding. The event aims at examining the distribution growth rate, fodder production of red meat and dairy.
The surface of fodder crops have also increased in autumn to reach 310,005 hectares, an increase of 5, 000 hectares in comparison with the previous season. As for the surface of fodder crops for the summer season, it has reached 23.560 hectares against 20, 000 hectares during the last season.
The milk collection in the first months of 2010 is estimated at 161 million liters, an increase of 8.8% over the same period of 2009. In addition, until April 12, 2010, the stockpile of milk rose to 33 million liters.
Accordingly, the monitoring of red meat sector was the focus of this meeting. Participants stressed the importance of achieving the registration program on livestock and pay attention to the tracking system of red meat production.
A bumper harvest is also estimated at 3 million quintals of grain is provided in the governorate of Beja, which provides from 25 to 40% of the national cereal production.
http://www.tunisiaonlinenews.com/?p=37192
The positive impact of recent rains recorded at the beginning of April on the growth of crops was the focus a work session on Thursday in Tunis.
Mr. Abdessalem Mansour, Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries chaired the event.
According to reports from field visits, undertaken by working groups monitoring cereal crops region, a growth was recorded in 37% of cultivated areas, located in the humid and semi-humid regions.
Works of the working session unveiled the importance to continue operations of irrigation as well as to increase the processing actions against diseases.
In a related event, the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries chaired a second working session on breeding. The event aims at examining the distribution growth rate, fodder production of red meat and dairy.
The surface of fodder crops have also increased in autumn to reach 310,005 hectares, an increase of 5, 000 hectares in comparison with the previous season. As for the surface of fodder crops for the summer season, it has reached 23.560 hectares against 20, 000 hectares during the last season.
The milk collection in the first months of 2010 is estimated at 161 million liters, an increase of 8.8% over the same period of 2009. In addition, until April 12, 2010, the stockpile of milk rose to 33 million liters.
Accordingly, the monitoring of red meat sector was the focus of this meeting. Participants stressed the importance of achieving the registration program on livestock and pay attention to the tracking system of red meat production.
A bumper harvest is also estimated at 3 million quintals of grain is provided in the governorate of Beja, which provides from 25 to 40% of the national cereal production.
http://www.tunisiaonlinenews.com/?p=37192
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Leading international wood importer says demand for exotic timber in Middle East region to increase
15 April 2010
Green Resources SL showcases tropical timber and by-products at 'Dubai WoodShow' 2010 debut Green Resources SL, a leading company in the international wood import industry, has expressed optimism that the demand for exotic timber in the Middle East region is likely to increase over the next few years. The company, which is making its 
debut at the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', has pointed out that despite the current global economic down turn, the Middle East region's construction and development sector remains the least unaffected - thereby creating a constant demand for key construction materials like wood and timber. Green Resources SL's participation also marks the company's commitment to connect its suppliers of Western African sawmills with some of the top wood-based importers from the Middle East and North African region (MENA).
20for%20exotic%20timber%20in%20Middle%20East%20region%20to%20increase/
15 April 2010
Green Resources SL showcases tropical timber and by-products at 'Dubai WoodShow' 2010 debut Green Resources SL, a leading company in the international wood import industry, has expressed optimism that the demand for exotic timber in the Middle East region is likely to increase over the next few years. The company, which is making its
The company, which is known for its specialization in international wood and wood product trading with West Africa, is currently showcasing its 30 years of experienced trading with a wide product display of exotic timber including iroko, sapelli, ayous, samba, tali, okan, ako, amazokoue, badi, mansonia, embero, boda, bosse, bubinga, dabema, emien, etimoe, eyong, frake, okoume, limbali, agba, izombe and azobe. Green Resources SL is also highlighting its current line of high quality tropical timber based products like timber, laminated boards, rotary cut veneer, flooring, plywood and 3-ply profiles. The company has an average annual turnover of EUR 19 million and sources its supply of exotic timber from tropical countries like the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, the Republic of Congo and Gabon.
"Participating for the first time at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010' has allowed us the immense opportunity of forging new partnerships and creating business opportunities with the region's key players," said Abel Guilien Mateu, Sales Director, Green Resources SL. "The event has become an important and strategic venue to help connect wood based suppliers like us with contractors, vendors and distributors, and we remain positive of the prospects in the region, given our confidence that the demand for exotic timber will increase in the next few years."
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100415071444/Leading%20international%20wood%20importer%20says%20demand%20for%20exotic%20timber%20in%20Middle%20East%20region%20to%20increase/
Russia focuses on advancing investment climate on wood industry in 2010
15 April 2010
Russian timber company 'Forestry Holding Altailes' marks extensive presence at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010'
20climate%20in%20wood%20industry%20in%202010/
Russian timber company 'Forestry Holding Altailes' marks extensive presence at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010'
Russia is focusing on advancing the investment climate within its wood industry this year, with aims to recover from the sharp fall in export demand for timber it has witnessed as a result of the global financial crisis. In line with this, Russian timber company 'Forestry Holding Altailes' is marking an extensive presence at the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', the Middle East's only wood-focused exhibition of its kind, to showcase its high quality timber goods among regional and global buyers. The company's participation at the event is part of its plans to maximise opportunities in the Middle East.
According to recent reports, there has been a significant decline in the production of solid wood panels in Russia, which dropped by 39.8 per cent during the first half of 2009, compared to the corresponding period in 2008. During the same period, materials such as plywood (declined 36.2 per cent), wood stoves (dropped 30.9 per cent), timber (dipped 22.4 per cent), and wooden building structures (decreased 26.9 per cent) also followed suit. However, the figures released by the Minister of Industry and Trade of Russia have shown that the sliding output in the wood sector has slugged compared to the rate of decline seen in the fourth quarter of 2008, with most commodity groups witnessing a 10 to 25 per cent rise in the level of capacity utilisation.
"Given the present state of the Russian wood trade, our highest priority is to develop an effective strategy to make adjustments in our manufacturing process to be able to keep pace with the ever-changing market requirement," said Loginov Dmitriy, Head of the Marketing Department, Forestry Holding Altailes. "The 'Dubai WoodShow 2010' has been an excellent venue to gather the latest industry intelligence that will help us maximise our partnerships with our most important wood trading partners, and we believe that participating in vibrant discussions in the event will open up profitable opportunities for us."
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100415065209/Russia%20focuses%20on%20advancing%20investment%20climate%20in%20wood%20industry%20in%202010/
Gulf Timber Company underlines importance of certified wood at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010'
15 April 2010
Company showcases new outdoor flooring made out of European ash from certified forests
Gulf Timber Company, a distributor of high quality exotic hardwood and a member of The Florian Group from Italy, is advocating the importance of certified wood at the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', the Middle East's only wood-focused exhibition, which is currently on its third day, at the Dubai Airport Expo. In line with this, the company is showcasing 'FLO.TERMO', a one-of-a-kind outdoor flooring made out of European ash that are obtained from certified forests. In addition, the company is also highlighting solid timber from Africa, Europe, North and South America and Malaysia, as well as fixed width and length timber cut to door frame size in beech wood, white oak and white ash, within the event.
"We took part in the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010' with aims to establish our company as a leading supplier of high quality timber products from across the globe, and with the number of inquiries we have received since the opening day, we are expecting new clients to make significant orders. We have also seen significant interest in certified wood among the regional and global buyers, and we are proud to be one of the companies to carry this type of products in the show," said Marius Van Der Berg, Sales Executive, Gulf Timber Company.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100415073525/Gulf%20Timber%20Company%20underlines%20importance%20of%20certified%20wood%20at%20%27Dubai%20WoodShow%202010%27/
15 April 2010
Company showcases new outdoor flooring made out of European ash from certified forests
Gulf Timber Company, a distributor of high quality exotic hardwood and a member of The Florian Group from Italy, is advocating the importance of certified wood at the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', the Middle East's only wood-focused exhibition, which is currently on its third day, at the Dubai Airport Expo. In line with this, the company is showcasing 'FLO.TERMO', a one-of-a-kind outdoor flooring made out of European ash that are obtained from certified forests. In addition, the company is also highlighting solid timber from Africa, Europe, North and South America and Malaysia, as well as fixed width and length timber cut to door frame size in beech wood, white oak and white ash, within the event.
"We took part in the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010' with aims to establish our company as a leading supplier of high quality timber products from across the globe, and with the number of inquiries we have received since the opening day, we are expecting new clients to make significant orders. We have also seen significant interest in certified wood among the regional and global buyers, and we are proud to be one of the companies to carry this type of products in the show," said Marius Van Der Berg, Sales Executive, Gulf Timber Company.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100415073525/Gulf%20Timber%20Company%20underlines%20importance%20of%20certified%20wood%20at%20%27Dubai%20WoodShow%202010%27/
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Iran to buy more Sri Lankan tea: government
COLOMBO, Apr 14, 2010 (AFP) - Iran plans nearly to double its purchase of Sri Lankan tea, the island's main export commodity, Sri Lanka's government said Wednesday, announcing a move that could boost tea prices.
Iran wants to buy 50 million kilos (110 million pounds) of tea this year, up from 28 million kilos in 2009, the government said in a statement.
Colombo said Tehran was ready to boost its purchases from Sri Lanka after the island became "politically stable" following the end of 37 years of fighting with Tamil Tiger rebels last year.
Sri Lanka earned an estimated 1.3 billion US dollars from exporting 289 million kilos of tea in 2009.
Iran accounted for nearly 10 percent of Sri Lanka's tea sales in 2009.
Sri Lanka's tea promotion board said they expected the Iranian move to further strengthen prices, which have risen by 29.47 percent in the first three months of this year compared with the same period last year.
aj/pmc/bsk
© Copyright AFP 2010.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidANA20100414T123117ZNJL80/Iran%20to%20buy%20more%20Sri%20Lankan%20tea%3A%20government/
COLOMBO, Apr 14, 2010 (AFP) - Iran plans nearly to double its purchase of Sri Lankan tea, the island's main export commodity, Sri Lanka's government said Wednesday, announcing a move that could boost tea prices.
Iran wants to buy 50 million kilos (110 million pounds) of tea this year, up from 28 million kilos in 2009, the government said in a statement.
Colombo said Tehran was ready to boost its purchases from Sri Lanka after the island became "politically stable" following the end of 37 years of fighting with Tamil Tiger rebels last year.
Sri Lanka earned an estimated 1.3 billion US dollars from exporting 289 million kilos of tea in 2009.
Iran accounted for nearly 10 percent of Sri Lanka's tea sales in 2009.
Sri Lanka's tea promotion board said they expected the Iranian move to further strengthen prices, which have risen by 29.47 percent in the first three months of this year compared with the same period last year.
aj/pmc/bsk
© Copyright AFP 2010.
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidANA20100414T123117ZNJL80/Iran%20to%20buy%20more%20Sri%20Lankan%20tea%3A%20government/
Growth prospects of food sector bright: Al Rajhi study
14 April 2010
MANAMA: Overall outlook of the food sector remains promising with further growth expected in the Kingdom and the Gulf states as a whole, according to a report released on Tuesday by Al Rajhi Capital, the investment subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Al Rajhi Bank.
Al Rajhi has issued a comprehensive report from the firm's research department on the Saudi Arabian Food Sector.
The research shows positive growth trends which are supported by favourable demographics including high growth rates and a young population, as well as strong levels of GDP and per capita income rates; imrovements in education, greater consciousness of the benefits of healthy foods such as fresh dairy products and new lifestyle choices are stimulating growth of the sector and the development of new areas including the lucrative health food segment and market conditions continue to favour the sectors dominant players such as Almarai and Savola, which have shown impressive growth and financial performance.
The 40-page report provides an in-depth look at the performance and projections for the sector and valuations for top industry players.
"Research is a critical part of the investment process and we're pleased to be able to provide investors with independent analysis and in-depth views into growing industry sectors such as this," said Dr. Saleh Al-Suhaibani, head of Research at Al Rajhi Capital
"Our clients are increasingly looking for value and greater insight into the markets and we are confident that the calibre of research provided by Al Rajhi Capital can give our clients the information they need to more effectively evaluate their investment decisions and manage their portfolios," he added.
Al Rajhi Capital initiates coverage of two of Saudi Arabian market's leading food companies, Almarai, the top local and GCC-wide dairy producer, and Savola, a leading food producer, retailer and investor, with "overweight" ratings.
Together Almarai and Savola account for 79 percent of the aggregate market capitalisation of the food sector, which is currently approximately SR 51.1 billion as of the end of March 2010.
The key highlights of the report include the prospects for the sector, which includes 15-listed companies in total.
Smaller players, however, will remain under pressure as mergers and acquisition continues to be the chief mode of growth for top players in the sector, it said.
However, the report added, debt levels to fund acquisitions remain under control among acquisitive companies such as Almaraiand Savola, who have each executed a string of highly successful and profitable acquisitions in 2009 and prior years.
Talking about the key maket segments in terms of trends in key market segments, Al Rajhi Capital's report believes strong prospects for companies in the dairy market albeit with an increase in competition. To remain competitive, dairy producers must diversify as Almarai has done, greatly reducing dependence on dairy sales in favour of expansion in areas such as juice, bakery and cheese products, which are flourishing. Almarai, for example, in recent years has decreased its reliance on dairy from 100% to 60% of revenues.
"Stable commodity prices for foodstuffs is expected going forward and should result in revenue growth from products such as sugar, edible oils and others. Growing trend towards shopping in larger retail outlets is also expected to be positive for food sales and improvements are predicted for the retail segment in 2010, particularly for large players like Savola as they rationalise newly acquired store networks. Today only 30 to 35% of aggregate sales of food products come from large retail outlets thus leaving significant room for penetration," the report added.
The report also provides specific valuations of key company stocks including a full analysis of Almarai and Savola, which it believes still offer considerable value to investors," it added.
By MAHMOOD RAFIQUE
© Arab News 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100414031949/Growth%20prospects%20of%20food%20sector%20bright%3A%20Al%20Rajhi%20study%20/
14 April 2010
MANAMA: Overall outlook of the food sector remains promising with further growth expected in the Kingdom and the Gulf states as a whole, according to a report released on Tuesday by Al Rajhi Capital, the investment subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Al Rajhi Bank.
Al Rajhi has issued a comprehensive report from the firm's research department on the Saudi Arabian Food Sector.
The research shows positive growth trends which are supported by favourable demographics including high growth rates and a young population, as well as strong levels of GDP and per capita income rates; imrovements in education, greater consciousness of the benefits of healthy foods such as fresh dairy products and new lifestyle choices are stimulating growth of the sector and the development of new areas including the lucrative health food segment and market conditions continue to favour the sectors dominant players such as Almarai and Savola, which have shown impressive growth and financial performance.
The 40-page report provides an in-depth look at the performance and projections for the sector and valuations for top industry players.
"Research is a critical part of the investment process and we're pleased to be able to provide investors with independent analysis and in-depth views into growing industry sectors such as this," said Dr. Saleh Al-Suhaibani, head of Research at Al Rajhi Capital
"Our clients are increasingly looking for value and greater insight into the markets and we are confident that the calibre of research provided by Al Rajhi Capital can give our clients the information they need to more effectively evaluate their investment decisions and manage their portfolios," he added.
Al Rajhi Capital initiates coverage of two of Saudi Arabian market's leading food companies, Almarai, the top local and GCC-wide dairy producer, and Savola, a leading food producer, retailer and investor, with "overweight" ratings.
Together Almarai and Savola account for 79 percent of the aggregate market capitalisation of the food sector, which is currently approximately SR 51.1 billion as of the end of March 2010.
The key highlights of the report include the prospects for the sector, which includes 15-listed companies in total.
Smaller players, however, will remain under pressure as mergers and acquisition continues to be the chief mode of growth for top players in the sector, it said.
However, the report added, debt levels to fund acquisitions remain under control among acquisitive companies such as Almaraiand Savola, who have each executed a string of highly successful and profitable acquisitions in 2009 and prior years.
Talking about the key maket segments in terms of trends in key market segments, Al Rajhi Capital's report believes strong prospects for companies in the dairy market albeit with an increase in competition. To remain competitive, dairy producers must diversify as Almarai has done, greatly reducing dependence on dairy sales in favour of expansion in areas such as juice, bakery and cheese products, which are flourishing. Almarai, for example, in recent years has decreased its reliance on dairy from 100% to 60% of revenues.
"Stable commodity prices for foodstuffs is expected going forward and should result in revenue growth from products such as sugar, edible oils and others. Growing trend towards shopping in larger retail outlets is also expected to be positive for food sales and improvements are predicted for the retail segment in 2010, particularly for large players like Savola as they rationalise newly acquired store networks. Today only 30 to 35% of aggregate sales of food products come from large retail outlets thus leaving significant room for penetration," the report added.
The report also provides specific valuations of key company stocks including a full analysis of Almarai and Savola, which it believes still offer considerable value to investors," it added.
By MAHMOOD RAFIQUE
© Arab News 2010
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100414031949/Growth%20prospects%20of%20food%20sector%20bright%3A%20Al%20Rajhi%20study%20/
UAE farm breaks new ground in marketing fresh produce
The Naswa Organic Farm situated on the Hatta roads grow up to 65 types of vegetables
and herbs that are sold in it's shop of the same name in Umm Suqueim.
Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd (left) and Abdullah Bel Habb during the opening of the store.
Published: 00:00 April 14, 2010
Dubai: Organic fruit and vegetables cannot get fresher than this. Everyday new produce arrives to fill the shelves of a small family-run shop which has been cultivating organic fruits and vegetables for 10 years.
The Naswa Organic Farm situated on the Hatta road grows up to 65 types of vegetables and herbs that are then sold in its shop of the same name in Umm Suqueim. The concept of the shop is that nothing is stored and due to the relatively low quantities produced, it flies off the shelves.
Organic farming has been a growing trend in the UAE over the last few years, and this is the newest shop to open its doors. The only difference is the produce is all grown in the UAE and is sold straight from the farm to consumer.
Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd, Minister of Environment and Water, officially opened the shop last night. Organic farms in the UAE are certified by the ministry after inspections are carried out on the produce and the soil it is grown in. Around 10 farms are certified in the UAE.
"We've been certified organic since September and the concept is that we don't keep anything. We sell everything and the next morning we start all over again," said Elena Kinane, general manager of the shop and business partner of Abdullah Bel Habb, who started the farm a decade ago.
"If we were to stock supermarkets with the produce it would take three days to get to the shelves. That's too long and the vegetables would spoil. This way it's always fresh and we sell direct to the local community," said Kinane.
"We're 100 per cent chemical free and have better standards than European standards."
Naswa Organic Farm produce from organic seeds acquired from Germany and more organic fruits and vegetables are being added every month.
"We have strawberries now and soon we will have melons and herbs. We're looking at starting organic eggs," said Kinane. After the summer, selected customers will be offered to tour the farm.
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/uae-farm-breaks-new-ground-in-marketing-fresh-produce-1.612011
The Naswa Organic Farm situated on the Hatta roads grow up to 65 types of vegetables
and herbs that are sold in it's shop of the same name in Umm Suqueim.
Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd (left) and Abdullah Bel Habb during the opening of the store.
Published: 00:00 April 14, 2010
Dubai: Organic fruit and vegetables cannot get fresher than this. Everyday new produce arrives to fill the shelves of a small family-run shop which has been cultivating organic fruits and vegetables for 10 years.
The Naswa Organic Farm situated on the Hatta road grows up to 65 types of vegetables and herbs that are then sold in its shop of the same name in Umm Suqueim. The concept of the shop is that nothing is stored and due to the relatively low quantities produced, it flies off the shelves.
Organic farming has been a growing trend in the UAE over the last few years, and this is the newest shop to open its doors. The only difference is the produce is all grown in the UAE and is sold straight from the farm to consumer.
Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd, Minister of Environment and Water, officially opened the shop last night. Organic farms in the UAE are certified by the ministry after inspections are carried out on the produce and the soil it is grown in. Around 10 farms are certified in the UAE.
"We've been certified organic since September and the concept is that we don't keep anything. We sell everything and the next morning we start all over again," said Elena Kinane, general manager of the shop and business partner of Abdullah Bel Habb, who started the farm a decade ago.
"If we were to stock supermarkets with the produce it would take three days to get to the shelves. That's too long and the vegetables would spoil. This way it's always fresh and we sell direct to the local community," said Kinane.
"We're 100 per cent chemical free and have better standards than European standards."
Naswa Organic Farm produce from organic seeds acquired from Germany and more organic fruits and vegetables are being added every month.
"We have strawberries now and soon we will have melons and herbs. We're looking at starting organic eggs," said Kinane. After the summer, selected customers will be offered to tour the farm.
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/uae-farm-breaks-new-ground-in-marketing-fresh-produce-1.612011
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Malaysian Timber Council seeks to enhance trade between Malaysia and UAE
13 April 2010
Council promotes leading Malaysian timber wood manufacturers and traders at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010'
The Malaysian Timber Council (MTC), the agency that promotes the development of the Malaysian timber industry with special focus on the marketing of locally-made timber products, is seeking to enhance the wood trade between Malaysia and the UAE, given the country's strong efforts to establish itself as the trade and service hub in West Asia. In line with this, the Council is currently promoting local companies and their Malaysian timber wood at the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', the Middle East's wood-focused exhibition, which is currently running at the Dubai Airport Expo until April 15, 2010.
Malaysia produces a diverse range of products, from sawn timber to semi-finished items such as quality flooring, doors, decking, mouldings, staircases other joinery timber products and furniture. In 2009, despite the strong trading partnership between UAE and Malaysia, the economic downturn has taken a toll on the volume of Malaysian timber exported to the UAE. However, in 2009, total export of timber products from Malaysia to UAE stood at RM 598,644,103. With its participation at this year's 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', MTC is aiming to bolster the demand for Malaysian wood products in the UAE as well as across the GCC.
"MTC strives to raise the profile of the Malaysian timber industry globally by promoting Malaysia as a holistic and efficient one-stop sourcing centre," said Khairul Anwar, Director, Malaysian Timber Council. "As part of our efforts to further expand and diversify our international trade, our presence here at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010' affords us an excellent opportunity to introduce Malaysian timber manufacturers to local and regional buyers and hopefully create a dynamic that will reinvigorate the trade between Malaysia and the UAE."
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100413105546/Malaysian%20Timber%20Council%20seeks%20to%20enhance%20trade%20between%20Malaysia%20and%20UAE/
13 April 2010
Council promotes leading Malaysian timber wood manufacturers and traders at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010'
The Malaysian Timber Council (MTC), the agency that promotes the development of the Malaysian timber industry with special focus on the marketing of locally-made timber products, is seeking to enhance the wood trade between Malaysia and the UAE, given the country's strong efforts to establish itself as the trade and service hub in West Asia. In line with this, the Council is currently promoting local companies and their Malaysian timber wood at the 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', the Middle East's wood-focused exhibition, which is currently running at the Dubai Airport Expo until April 15, 2010.
Malaysia produces a diverse range of products, from sawn timber to semi-finished items such as quality flooring, doors, decking, mouldings, staircases other joinery timber products and furniture. In 2009, despite the strong trading partnership between UAE and Malaysia, the economic downturn has taken a toll on the volume of Malaysian timber exported to the UAE. However, in 2009, total export of timber products from Malaysia to UAE stood at RM 598,644,103. With its participation at this year's 'Dubai WoodShow 2010', MTC is aiming to bolster the demand for Malaysian wood products in the UAE as well as across the GCC.
"MTC strives to raise the profile of the Malaysian timber industry globally by promoting Malaysia as a holistic and efficient one-stop sourcing centre," said Khairul Anwar, Director, Malaysian Timber Council. "As part of our efforts to further expand and diversify our international trade, our presence here at 'Dubai WoodShow 2010' affords us an excellent opportunity to introduce Malaysian timber manufacturers to local and regional buyers and hopefully create a dynamic that will reinvigorate the trade between Malaysia and the UAE."
http://www.zawya.com/Story.cfm/sidZAWYA20100413105546/Malaysian%20Timber%20Council%20seeks%20to%20enhance%20trade%20between%20Malaysia%20and%20UAE/
High prices, low awareness stall organic farming plans
Abu Dhabi: The high price of organic agricultural produce is the initial challenge which the UAE faces in order to increase the share of organic farmlands — which constitute a mere 0.05 per cent of the total farmland — in the country, an official told Gulf News.
"The prices of organic produce in the UAE are three to four times more [than conventional produce] whereas in Europe the prices [of organic produce] are just double only," Gian L. Nicolay, deputy manager of a project set-up by Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) to promote organic farming in the emirate, said.
According to Nicolay, an agronomist with the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL a Swiss company), imported organic produce [due to low local production] is costly which leads to a low demand for them. This in turn discourages local farmers from switching to organic farming.
Increase production
The demand for organic produce is growing but the UAE has to increase production to support the trend, Nicolay said at the Liwa Agricultural Exhibition organised by the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA), recently.
ADFCA plans to increase the share of organic farming in the emirate.
It has set up the Organic Agriculture Centre (OAC) in cooperation with FiBL to promote organic farming in the emirate.
Abu Dhabi being the largest emirate, the initiative may see considerable increase in the country's meagre share of organic farm lands, according to the official.
The UAE has 331 hectares of organic farm land which is a mere 0.5 per cent of total farm lands, according to the 2009 edition of ‘The World of Organic Agriculture', published by FiBL and the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM).
FiBL has a four year project with OAC which will give all sorts of assistance to the farmers, especially the best techniques of organic farming, Nicolay said.
Farmers' issue: lack of support
"I would have switched to organic farming long ago, if there had been sufficient demand for local produce in the local market," a prominent farmer in Liwa told Gulf News.
The demand is at an unsatisfactory level because potential customers, mainly the upper class in the country, lack awareness in this regard, Mohammad Saeed Al Hamili, 41, said. Al Hamili owns a large farm which produces 250 tonnes of vegetables per month.
"Only the rich can afford the higher prices at the moment — [which is] three times [the price of] conventional produce; but they too do not purchase organic produce", he added. He sells his produce to a prominent retail chain on a regular basis and does not intend to switch to organic farming until the market situation changes. Al Hamili said farmers needed more support from the government. "Many countries... have adopted measures to protect the local produce. We expect such measures in the UAE too." An ADFCA official said that the authorities wanted farmers to be independent and compete in the market without government's support.
"But we will extend all assistance... to improve the farming", Khalifa Al Ali, Deputy Chairman of Farmers Service Centre, an institution set up by ADFCA, said.
Is organic food gaining in popularity in the UAE? Has it made a difference to your health? Is the cost worth the benefit?
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/high-prices-low-awareness-stall-organic-farming-plans-1.611528
Abu Dhabi: The high price of organic agricultural produce is the initial challenge which the UAE faces in order to increase the share of organic farmlands — which constitute a mere 0.05 per cent of the total farmland — in the country, an official told Gulf News.
"The prices of organic produce in the UAE are three to four times more [than conventional produce] whereas in Europe the prices [of organic produce] are just double only," Gian L. Nicolay, deputy manager of a project set-up by Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) to promote organic farming in the emirate, said.
According to Nicolay, an agronomist with the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL a Swiss company), imported organic produce [due to low local production] is costly which leads to a low demand for them. This in turn discourages local farmers from switching to organic farming.
Increase production
The demand for organic produce is growing but the UAE has to increase production to support the trend, Nicolay said at the Liwa Agricultural Exhibition organised by the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA), recently.
ADFCA plans to increase the share of organic farming in the emirate.
It has set up the Organic Agriculture Centre (OAC) in cooperation with FiBL to promote organic farming in the emirate.
Abu Dhabi being the largest emirate, the initiative may see considerable increase in the country's meagre share of organic farm lands, according to the official.
The UAE has 331 hectares of organic farm land which is a mere 0.5 per cent of total farm lands, according to the 2009 edition of ‘The World of Organic Agriculture', published by FiBL and the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM).
FiBL has a four year project with OAC which will give all sorts of assistance to the farmers, especially the best techniques of organic farming, Nicolay said.
Farmers' issue: lack of support
"I would have switched to organic farming long ago, if there had been sufficient demand for local produce in the local market," a prominent farmer in Liwa told Gulf News.
The demand is at an unsatisfactory level because potential customers, mainly the upper class in the country, lack awareness in this regard, Mohammad Saeed Al Hamili, 41, said. Al Hamili owns a large farm which produces 250 tonnes of vegetables per month.
"Only the rich can afford the higher prices at the moment — [which is] three times [the price of] conventional produce; but they too do not purchase organic produce", he added. He sells his produce to a prominent retail chain on a regular basis and does not intend to switch to organic farming until the market situation changes. Al Hamili said farmers needed more support from the government. "Many countries... have adopted measures to protect the local produce. We expect such measures in the UAE too." An ADFCA official said that the authorities wanted farmers to be independent and compete in the market without government's support.
"But we will extend all assistance... to improve the farming", Khalifa Al Ali, Deputy Chairman of Farmers Service Centre, an institution set up by ADFCA, said.
Is organic food gaining in popularity in the UAE? Has it made a difference to your health? Is the cost worth the benefit?
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/environment/high-prices-low-awareness-stall-organic-farming-plans-1.611528
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