SALALAH: Dhofar Governorate is experiencing a surge in investment in its agricultural, fisheries, and livestock sectors, buoyed by government support and the region's inherent potential for success. The Khareef season, marked by heavy tourist influx, significantly boosts the demand for local produce, thereby benefiting these sectors.
Eng Rashid bin Saeed al Ghafri, Director General of Agricultural, Fisheries, and Water Resources in Dhofar, highlighted the positive economic impact of the Khareef season across all sectors. He noted that the season presents an excellent opportunity to market agricultural, animal, and fishery products, thanks to the high demand from both domestic and international tourists.
Al Ghafri emphasised the strong demand for agricultural, fisheries, and animal products, which are essential for both tourists and residents. The Directorate collaborates with various authorities, including Consumer Protection, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and Dhofar Municipality, to ensure the availability, quality, and safety of food commodities through import outlets.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources is actively encouraging investment in these sectors. Significant investments are being made in the Najd agricultural region, with ample land available for food security projects. The Ministry is also coordinating infrastructure development to support these investments.
Currently, over 35 investment opportunities are in the pipeline, spanning agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and water sectors across Dhofar Governorate. Al Ghafri pointed out that Dhofar's diverse geography and environment make it ideal for a wide range of agricultural crops. The region has seen successful cultivation of tropical fruits and various field crops, such as corn and beans. Notably, the turmeric localisation project has benefited over 76 families, producing more than 40 tonnes last year. Preparations are underway for ginger cultivation this autumn.
Coconuts are a significant tourist attraction in Dhofar, with coconut juice (mashli) becoming a favourite among visitors. The governorate boasts more than 170,000 coconut trees, and a new farm, Salalah Gardens Company, is being established to add 50,000 more trees, along with other crops like papaya.
To meet the increased demand during the autumn season, the Ministry has facilitated the import of coconuts. Measures have been taken to temporarily halt the export of coconuts and restrict their transportation outside the governorate until August 23, in coordination with Consumer Protection and the Royal Oman Police.
Fish production in Dhofar stands at over 103,000 tonnes annually, valued at approximately RO 52.5 million. This not only meets the food needs of tourists and residents but also supports exports to local and international markets. The governorate has a robust fishing industry, with 12,687 fishermen operating 5,094 boats, 83 artisanal fishing vessels, and 82 coastal fishing vessels.
Investment opportunities in the fisheries sector include establishing wholesale markets in the Raysut fishing port and a fish collection project in Al Shuwaimiyah. Fish farming projects, such as abalone and shrimp farming, are also underway. New fish landing facilities are being constructed, including ports in Hadbin and Hasik, with significant investments.
In the livestock sector, which constitutes 60 per cent of the camel and cow population in Oman, several development projects are in progress. These include a national immunization project, enhanced veterinary services, and the introduction of modern technologies like automatic milking machines. The Al Murooj milk collection project, with three existing centers in Salalah, is expanding with plans for additional centers in Mirbat, Taqah, and Thumrait. — ONA
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