Makkah Environment Authority explores developing food supply chains with investors
In a move aimed at strengthening the food security system and ensuring resource sustainability, the Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the Makkah region, Engineer Waleed bin Ibrahim Al-Daghis, held an important coordination meeting with a number of investors and the head of the fruit and vegetable brokers' association in Jeddah. The Deputy Director General, Engineer Hassan bin Ibrahim Al-Mu'idi, also attended the meeting, where discussions focused on ways to improve the efficiency of food supply chains in the region.
A strategic context for enhancing food security
This meeting comes as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to achieve the goals of Vision 2030 related to food security. The Ministry is giving considerable attention to developing the agricultural and livestock sectors to ensure the availability of products in local markets. The Ministry's branches in various regions, particularly in the Makkah region, serve as a vital link between decision-makers and private sector investors to ensure the smooth and efficient flow of food products, especially in light of population growth and increasing demand.
Discussing challenges and sustainable solutions
The meeting included an in-depth discussion of the most prominent challenges facing investors in vital sectors including livestock, fruits and vegetables, and poultry. Particular emphasis was placed on:
- Addressing violations and regulatory procedures that may hinder workflow.
- Proposing practical solutions to facilitate government procedures and raise the level of joint coordination.
- Reviewing development ideas that ensure the smooth flow of food supplies and their arrival to the end consumer with high quality and reasonable prices.
Economic and social importance
These measures are of paramount importance in the Makkah region, a global destination for pilgrims and Umrah performers, requiring a high level of operational readiness for the food system year-round. Enhancing the efficiency of supply chains not only ensures product availability but also strengthens the region's economic stability and creates an attractive investment environment that encourages domestic capital to expand into food security projects. This, in turn, positively impacts the gross domestic product and contributes to self-sufficiency in many essential goods.
Effective partnership with the private sector
At the conclusion of the meeting, Engineer Al-Dughais affirmed the ministry branch's commitment to empowering investors and fostering a stimulating environment for growth, noting that addressing challenges directly and promptly is a top priority. He also emphasized the continuation of field visits and oversight to ensure compliance with regulations and guarantee the implementation of agreed-upon solutions to serve beneficiaries and achieve the public interest.
