Our world is precious. Protecting it lies at the heart of our responsibility. And that is why sustainability is increasingly important in all aspects of what we do.
With a world population of over 8 billion and growing, the food sector plays a significant role in our planet's health and wellbeing, as well as our own.
Environmental concerns have brought an increasing set of challenges towards the food industry, and the way we address the needs of this sector has never been more important. It is up to us to create a system that is carbon mindful, sustainable and food secure.
Advancements in technologies have allowed this, from sustainable farming practices to reduce environmental impact, maintaining soil health and conserving water, to optimizing energy use, minimizing waste and adopting renewable energy sources alongside the right policies and investments that support a sustainable food industry.
When it comes to food, Oman, as the eighth largest producer of dates in the world and the leading producer of fish in the region, has a lot to offer. Its date industry boasts an average annual production of more than 260,000 metric tonnes per annum alongside an agricultural industry cultivating a wide range of crops and a thriving dairy industry.
Choosing local has played a significant role in the sustainability of our food system. Besides local produce often being the fresher, tastier, and more nutritious option, it allows us to support the local economy, contributing to the success of nearby farmers and businesses, reducing the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation.
Local establishments such as Mazoon Dairy have helped increase the food security of our country, enhancing the vitality of regional agriculture and dairy production.
Oman is also one of the largest fish producers in the region with its aquaculture sector expected to contribute $5.2 billion to GDP and an estimated market value of $900 million by 2049 (Invest Oman). The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, aligned with Vision 2040, has developed a national strategy for agriculture and rural development strategy (SARDS) to unlock the potential of the agriculture sector by enhancing its economic efficiency, profitability and competitiveness; improving environmental sustainability and resilience to natural disasters and crises and fostering integrated territorial development to unlock the potential of the rural areas.
Similarly, Fisheries Development Oman (FDO) successful efforts in facilitating favorable investment opportunities have helped nurture local expertise through Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and In-Country Value (ICV) initiatives.
Today, our global interconnectivity has made the responsibility of supporting local produce increasingly relevant. Embracing local products and strengthening the bond between consumers and the producers.
Fostering a sustainable food industry is essential for the health of our planet and our communities. Oman’s robust agricultural and aquaculture sectors demonstrate how local initiatives can enhance food security and economic vitality - not only benefiting the environment but also creating a resilient and self-sufficient food system. Our choices matter. So let us opt for locally sourced products, and contribute to a sustainable future for Oman and beyond.
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