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Novartis Egypt launches tree planting drive

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:44:38 GMT

Novartis Egypt, the Egyptian affiliate of Swiss-based Novartis, recently marked its 16th annual Community Partnership Day with the launch of a tree planting initiative.

Nearly 400 Novartis employees planted 150 trees using sustainable agriculture techniques in the communal gardens of Right to Live Association for the Intellectually Disabled (RTLA), Egypt’s first organization providing care and training to persons with intellectual disabilities, in Heliopolis.

The one-day event aims to promote a brighter future for the environment and society by introducing to many people the importance of urban farming as a sustainable tool for healthy urban living.

Themed ‘Seeds of Hope’, the event was implemented in collaboration with Nawaya, a non-profit organization promoting sustainable agriculture, and the RLTA.

"Corporate responsibility is part of our essence of who we are at Novartis. Today marks our 16th annual Community Partnership Day, an important way in which Novartis lives up to its strong commitment to corporate citizenship,” said George Zarkalis, Novartis CPO head and country president.

“Almost 400 Novartis Egypt team members from the company’s various divisions including Novartis Pharma, Sandoz, OTC and Alcon, today join their colleagues around the world in volunteering their time and effort to contribute to their community’s overall welfare.”

“Seeds of Hope follows Earth Day offering a great opportunity to reflect on the impact we each have on our planet," said Dr Salah El Sharkawy, Novartis vice president and spokesperson. “Planting trees in celebration of Earth Day represents our commitment to providing a safe, healthy and sustainable environment for all those who live and visit our wonderful city.”

The team also engaged the surrounding community in planting, and helped raise awareness on the benefits of going green and understanding the importance of maintaining the newly planted locations.

Furthermore, Novartis is donating all the equipment used to farmers in need in Abu Sir, contributing to a lasting and sustainable community impact. – TradeArabia News Service

Wheels begin to turn in India's farm revolution

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 11:02:21 GMT

The world's second-biggest producer of rice, wheat and sugar, India has slowly started embracing mechanization after centuries of farming with methods the United States threw out with the British, say analysts.

Interviews with farmers, tractor salesmen, economists and agricultural officials show a country on the cusp of deep change.

As a shiny red harvester bounces across the black earth into the first row of sugar cane, excited schoolchildren run after it and several dozen men stand gaping in the wake of its swift progress.

It's the first time that Perle, a village on the banks of the Krishna river in Maharashtra state, has seen a machine used for cutting the tough cane.

'This machine will harvest my entire field today,' says Prashant Kadam, the young owner of the compact two-acre plot. 'Had it been harvested by laborers, they would have taken at least a week.'

A short drive away in a field where the sun is just getting hot enough to halt work, a team of 12 couples cut cane the way it's been done for centuries -- with machetes.

They load the cane into carts each pulled by two white bullocks with gaily painted horns and head for the local mill which dominates this sugar-growing valley some 300 km south of Mumbai.

It is a way of life that is fast disappearing in the world's second-biggest producer of rice, wheat and sugar.

Indian food consumption is rising and farmers are under pressure to produce more, faster and cheaper. Yet Indian farms traditionally use far fewer farm machines than their peer nations, partly because their acreage is so small.

Lately however, farmers have been buying new tools and machines to cope with a labor shortage triggered by government policies aimed at promoting non-agricultural work.

Tractor sales have increased 42 per cent in India over the last five years to an estimated 552,434 in 2011/12, according to industry figures.

The consequent boost to their productivity is helping them sustain more expensive lifestyles and that could spur India's cantering growth, averaging 7-8 per cent a year.

The sweeping changes are crucial as India adds the equivalent of an Australia to its 1.2 billion people every year.
Many of them are too poor to feed themselves and rely on government subsidized grains. At the same time, the swelling middle class of Asia's third-largest economy is demanding more and better quality food.

By 2020-21, Indians will consume 280 million metric tonnes of food grains a year, compared with a record output of 241.6 million metric tonnes in 2010/11, said V. Venkatachalam, special secretary at the Farm Ministry.

At the moment, India still uses under half the amount of power on farms that rival Asian giant China does and a tenth that of Japan.

It was Sangramsingh Jayanvantrao Jadhav's father who bought the harvester that caused such a sensation in Perle, where cane has grabbed more than 80 per cent of cultivatable land.

Jadhav takes the harvester around to neighbouring farmers, such as Kadam, who can work late into the night and through the noon-time heat in its air-conditioned cab.

'The harvester is new for the farmers. So we are convincing them about its benefits,' says Jadhav. 'From next year, we will be working in full swing.'

Renting out equipment makes sense for many farmers in India, whose plots and income are too small to justify outright purchases of expensive vehicles and tools.

Farm Minister Sharad Pawar has thrown his support behind custom hiring and the Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE) says renting equipment could be the best way to boost production in India.

'Small farm holdings mean every farmer can't have the equipment. So what we are saying is let there be intermediaries who could purchase the equipment and then provide it on a custom hiring basis,' says Pitam Chandra, who heads the CIAE.

Jadhav, who earned an MBA in agriculture and works in a bank, says he spends as much time as possible working with the harvester 'because I like to be here'.

At an office in a showroom for Mahindra's Swaraj brand of tractor in Satara, just 30 km away from Perle, Sachin Sambhaji Shelke points out that small tractors are more cost-efficient than the traditional bullocks.

'A pair of bullocks costs Rs100,000 ($1,940). You use them only during the season, but you have to take care of them the entire year. With a tractor, if there's no work, you don't have to look after it,' said the 36-year-old, who runs the business set up by his father in 1984.

While India is one of the largest markets for tractors, their use is limited -- mostly on construction sites or for ferrying anything from wedding decorations to field laborers.

That's partly because farm sizes remain so small -- more than 83 percent of India's farms are on less than 2 hectares per capita, well below global averages of 3.7 hectares, according to advisors KPMG. As a result, small-size tractor sales are booming.

'Most of the manufacturers are shifting their focus to smaller and low-cost tractors and specialized tractors to attract the marginal farmers,' says Vishal Srivastav, deputy manager at Credit Analysis and Research (CARE).

Sharply higher labor costs are also helping to make using machines a more attractive option.

In Maharashtra, government efforts to ensure a minimum wage for rural households have pushed up labor costs nearly 40 percent in the past year.

Urbanization is also pushing up labor costs. The latest census shows city populations jumped 31.8 percent from 2001 to 2011 against growth of 12.2 percent in rural areas.

'The new generation is not interested in farming,' says Vasant Nathu Rajpure, who grows turmeric near Shahbag village, about 250 kilometers south of Mumbai.'My children are studying. Their aspirations are different. They don't like laborious farm work.'

Sugar cane is the dominant crop in this region, after the arrival of cheap motor pumps and electricity around three decades back allowed farmers here to make better use of the river and grow the crop, which needs huge amounts of water.

Sampant Vishnu Chavan, a 77-year-old whose son cultivates sugar cane on most of his land in Perle, says focusing on this crop has meant farmers have switched to a cash economy from largely barter.

'Around 50 years back ... we were giving grains to the carpenter, the goldsmith, the potter and farm workers for their service ... But sugar cane changed this practice. We sell cane to the factory. Now we pay them money.'

With this move to cash and cane comes higher income for farmers and increased discretionary spending.

'They are building concrete houses. They are buying modern electronic equipment like televisions, fridges,' says Mohan Patil, cane development officer at the Sahyadri co-operative mill, who has worked with local farmers in Perle for over three decades.

Just two months ago, turmeric farmer Rajpure bought a new Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire sedan, worth about Rs500,000 ($10,000). In the last year, the 52-year-old has bought three motorbikes for family members and an LCD television.

Sitting in his backyard, carefully removing the stitching on fertilizer bags to turn them into a waterproof cover for crops, the white-haired Chavan points to a tractor parked outside a neighbor's house.

'Tractors have changed everything,' he says. 'In the old days ... four pairs of bullocks were taking a day to plough an acre of land. Now, a tractor ploughs an acre in two to three hours. Farmers don't need to keep bullocks,' he says.

Around half a century back there were 150 pairs of bullocks in Perle village, but now the number has come down to 20, he says.

Pitam Chandra at the CIAE estimates animals are now used for about 300-400 hours a year compared with over 1,500 hours in the 1960s.

'Animal power is going down because the cost of maintaining animals is going up and we are not employing them throughout the year,' he said.

Reducing the number of animals has had a knock-on effect on fertilizer use, however, costing the government dear in subsidies as it tries to hold down prices in the face of 20 million metric tonnes of annual imports.

'From animals earlier we were collecting dung, which we were using as fertilizer. Now since we have only one cow, we are not getting sufficient manure. We have to buy chemical fertilizers in large amounts,' says Sambhaji Chavan, a farmer from Perle who sold his bullocks and hires a tractor to do their work.

As he patiently crafts a wooden grip for a cane-cutting machete, 61-year-old Dadaso Khashaba Sutar reflects on the need for him to change his skills as tractors take over.

'My father taught me techniques he learned from my grandfather. Those skills are no longer required. Few tools (for use with bullocks) are in use and very soon they also will be replaced by new machines,' he said.

One of Sutar's sons has migrated to Mumbai for a job, while his second son is now working in the construction industry.

'I am doing some work, but that will also vanish in the next few years. With me, our tradition of serving farmers will disappear,' Sutar says with a smile.

He shows off the old tools he keeps which were in use some 30-40 years back in Perle. The current generation of farmers don't even know the names of some of these, he says.

Sutar now spends half his time on a new branch of carpentry. 'I have started making furniture. I am making doors, for them there is good demand from farmers as many are building new homes,' he added.-Reuters

China should farm more abroad: experts

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:15:39 GMT

China, the world's most populous country and biggest consumer of grain, should expand its farming overseas to ensure enough food for its people because of limited land and low productivity at home, agriculture experts said.

China's farm trade deficit will continue to widen to about $40 billion in 2012 following an increase of nearly 50 percent in 2011 to $34.12 billion, according to an estimate by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences think tank.

"While largely relying on domestic supplies for agriculture products, we should also fully utilise the international market," Zhu Gang, a researcher with the Rural Research Institute of the Academy, told a news conference.

"We should actively explore overseas resources by combining 'imports' and 'go overseas' to ensure stable supplies of agriculture products," said Zhu on the sidelines of the news conference, called for the publication of an academy study on rural China.

China's per capita farmland is less than 40 percent of the global average and water resources are at a quarter. It has no comparative advantages in farming, the academy said.

It said some Asian and African countries had vast areas of uncultivated land and investment in farming there by Chinese companies should boost global food supplies, which would also mean stable supplies for China.

About 40 Chinese companies are involved in overseas farming in more than 30 countries, with investment totalling 15.3 billion yuan ($2.43 billion).

Despite good harvests in China over the past eight years, increases in output are not able to keep pace with higher consumption at a time of rapid urbanisation and industrialisation.

China, the world's top rice producer, became a net importer of corn, rice and wheat for the first time in 2011.

"Supplies of agriculture products are tightening, despite years of bumper harvests, growth of demand has shown no sign of a slowdown," Guo Wei, the head of the rural department of the State Council's research office, told the conference.

Guo said farmers in some areas had given up rice farming and moved to cities to find work. Strong demand from livestock producers and processors had led to tighter corn supplies even though production of that crop had increased the most of all grains in recent years, said Guo.

The think tank expected China's corn output to surpass that of rice for the first time this year, becoming the largest grain crop. Record corn prices encouraged Chinese farmers to plant the largest ever acreage of the crop this year.

"To keep a balanced supply of agriculture products is becoming more and more difficult given the constrains of worsening land and water resources," said Xu Xiaoqing, head of the rural department of the Research and Development Center of the State Council.

Xu said rising imports of agriculture products, such as soy, cotton, sugar and edible oils would continue in the long term while overall grains production level fluctuates wildly depending on the weather. China is the world's top importer of soy and cotton.

China's grain production fell to about 90 percent of its needs in 2011, down from a government target of 95 percent, according to the report.

Despite a record rice and corn harvest last year, prices of grains also hovered at record highs. Overall, the price of agriculture products rose 16.5 percent in 2011 from 2010, of which grain prices rose 9 percent.

The think tank expected the overall prices of agricultural products prices to rise 10 percent in 2012. China's annual inflation rate jumped more than expected in March to 3.6 percent largely driven by high food prices, which rose 7.5 percent. - Reuters

Algeria grain harvest to rise 31pc

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 07:18:49 GMT

Algeria expects its grain harvest to reach 5.5 million tonnes this season due to better weather conditions, the official APS news agency quoted an agriculture ministry official as saying, a 31 percent rise on the previous campaign.

The head of the statistics department, Hocine Abdelghafour, said the harvest would be good thanks to sufficient rainfall in the past weeks and new equipment provided to farmers, APS reported.

APS also quoted Agriculture Minister Rachid Benaissa as saying durum output would "very good" this season. "The campaign will be very good in terms of durum wheat production, good for soft wheat and average for barley," APS quoted the minister as saying. - Reuters

Saudi Almarai Q1 net profit rises 2.9pc

Sun, 08 Apr 2012 06:53:11 GMT

Saudi dairy and food maker Almarai Trading Company said on Saturday its first-quarter net profit rose 2.9 per cent to SR242.1 million ($64.6 million) from SR235.2 million a year ago, as wider regional distribution boosted sales.

The sales rose by 17 per cent on the year to SR2 billion, it said.

'In particular, this was driven by bakery growth in the Gulf countries and poultry expansion in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,' said Almarai in a statement posted on the Saudi bourse's website.-Reuters

Morocco's cereals crop may fall to 3m tonnes

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:10:19 GMT

Morocco's cereals harvest in 2012 may fall to as low as 3 million tonnes due to the effects of drought, the Le Matin newspaper reported on Tuesday citing estimates from the agriculture ministry.

The ministry's spokespersons could not be reached to comment the report.

"According to forecasts from the agriculture ministry, the cereals harvest (this year) should stand at between 3 and 4 million tonnes," Le Matin said.

Last month, the head of the country's agricultural research institute told Reuters that the cereals harvest would not reach half of last year's 8.4 million tonnes, while cereals demand stands at some 7 million tonnes.

The US Department of Agriculture later projected Morocco's wheat import needs to exceed 5 million tonnes this year from 3.2 million tonnes for the previous campaign.

Barley imports are projected to almost double to 1 million tonnes. Last year's harvest included 4.17 million tonnes of soft wheat, 1.85 million tonnes of durum wheat and 2.34 million tonnes of barley.

The shortage comes at a sensitive time for the North African country's $100-billion economy, which relies on agriculture for 14 percent of its output.

Agriculture employs 40 percent of the 11-million workforce in Morocco, one of the world's 10 biggest cereal importers, which relies heavily on rain due mostly to the predominance of subsistence and rudimentary farming. -Reuters

Forum to showcase water saving system

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:38:12 GMT

A case study of an award winning irrigation system capable of saving up to 85 per cent more water than traditional irrigation systems will be presented at the Agribusiness Outlook Forum tomorrow (April 2) in Dubai.

Developed by UAE based water management solutions company EPIC Green Solutions, the pioneering system uses an Environmental Passive Integrated Chamber (EPIC) technology and won the Most Innovative Use of Technology Award at the H20 Awards in Dubai, November 2011.

The EPIC system was installed in two of the Al Dahra Agricultural Company greenhouses and open field farms in Al Ain, where it was compared to regular drip irrigation systems. Initial tests revealed that not only did the EPIC system save 85 per cent more water, but also produced twice as much growth, using 45 per cent less fertiliser.

Bart Rehbein, managing director of EPIC Green Solutions, said that agricultural independence and food security is extremely important to all countries in the Middle East and with a population of 2.4 million in the UAE; it is all about conserving water and using it more efficiently.

“Adopting sustainable agricultural methods and water storage options is the right move for a country to cater to increasing agricultural demands and to be able to produce its own crops effectively,” he said in the build up to the Agribusiness Outlook Forum.

“The per capita water availability in the Middle East is expected to halve by 2050 and it is mandatory to educate the region and its residents about the anticipated water shortage.”

Along with the Al Ain Farm Project, the EPIC irrigation system was also installed on the Yas Links Golf Course on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi in April 2011 with results similarly impressive.

Most recently in January, another demonstration plot was installed on Yas Island to grow salt tolerant plant species.

Rehbein added: “Results from the Yas Island plot show that average consumption of the various plants has been 2.77 litres per square metre per day, yielding savings of approximately 80 per cent more than typical irrigation systems. The success of this project will be an advantage for irrigation in the region and continue to show the versatility of the EPIC system.”

Now in its second year, the Agribusiness Outlook Forum is a feature of AGRA Middle East, the region’s only agribusiness trade event to be held from April 2 to 4 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Speakers will address crucial topics related to food security and discuss regional governments’ approaches towards the improvement of market-led agribusiness and investment decisions.

“The EPIC system has played an important role in the conservation of water and has provided solutions to ensure the efficient use of this limited resource,” concluded Rehbein.

“EPIC Green Solutions sees agriculture potential in the Middle East and we look forward to sharing our views on the topic with key decision makers at the Agribusiness Outlook Forum.” – TradeArabia News Service

Experts discuss ways to tackle plant diseases

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:38:11 GMT

A high-level delegation of international scientists recently visited Abu Dhabi to discuss issues related to plant diseases and methods to control them using the appropriate mechanisms and innovative methods.

Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) played host to the visitors once again affirming its commitment to sustainable agricultural development and scientific research.

The ADFCA also held a day of workshops entitled "Integrated Management of Pest Control," at the Department of Agricultural Research facility in Al Ain where the visiting delegation, which included scientists from the US, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Oman, gave key presentations.

The scientists also submitted a series of recommendations to chart a road map for agricultural research and the areas proposed for development of pest control methods in Abu Dhabi.

Key recommendations were made for the transfer of modern applications in areas such as anti-insect palm excavators, fruit insects, pests and diseases associated with greenhouses, as well as identifying new ways to deal with Varroa Mites.

The scientists also emphasised the need for research to find a strain of bees that is able to adapt to the local environment to produce honey of a high quality as an alternative to the annual import of honey from outside the country.

The delegation was later shown the framework for the strategic plans of ADFCA’s department of agricultural research, the nature of the research programs that take place and the areas where scientific and technical possibilities are available, in addition to units of plant research and agricultural fields of various subsidiaries.

Receiving the visitors, Mohamed Jalal Al Reyaysa, the director of communication and community service, ADFCA, emphasized the company’s dedication to serving the government’s sustainability strategy for the agricultural sector.

He also highlighted their commitment to attracting leading experts in the areas of agriculture and research globally to develop the capacity of Abu Dhabi farmers and motivate them to use the latest technologies in their farms.

Al Reyaysa said during their field visit the scientists held a number of panel discussion sessions with the Al Ain research center’s technical staff.-TradeArabia News Service

Major agri, vet trade shows open in Dubai

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:38:10 GMT

Two major trade events – AGRA Middle East, the region’s largest agriculture business trade event, and VET Middle East, with a focus on the animal healthcare sector – opened today (April 2) in Dubai.

Hussain Nasser Lootah, director general, Dubai Municipality, officially inaugurated the specialist agribusiness and veterinary trade events, which will run for three days at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

AGRA Middle East is hosting more than 180 international manufacturers and suppliers of agribusiness equipment from 30 countries looking to showcase their products.

The exhibition features the one-day Agribusiness Outlook Forum, where a panel of international experts from leading agricultural organisations and local leaders will discuss the development of an integrated food policy in the GCC region, which currently imports 90 per cent of all its food needs.

Shameer Babu, business head of Greenmart, the leading agribusiness group in Oman, and one of the speakers on the opening conference session, called for regional collaboration from countries in the Middle East to tackle food security issues, citing technical research and government intervention as the best way forward in producing nutritious food at affordable prices.

“Regional associations and alliances need to be formed across countries in the Middle East to exploit agricultural potential of each country and produce a particular crop while maintaining a symbiotic trade relationship between member countries,” said Babu.

“The world population is estimated to increase by 1.8 billion people by 2030 and food production at the current pace will not suffice the extra mouths. The challenge is to produce foodstuffs in a sustainable manner by maximising usage of available resources.”

“Effective research on producing ‘more crop per drop’ has to be carried out and effective steps need to be taken to ensure judicious use of scarce resources at farms,” he added.

Running alongside AGRA Middle East is the fourth edition of VET Middle East, providing a dedicated platform for exhibitors to expand their presence in the region’s growing veterinary industry.

Returning this year is the popular Veterinary Outlook Forum, where speakers will be busy addressing delegates on a diverse range of topics from the intelligent use of herbs in animal husbandry; falconry and veterinary medicines in the Middle East; and research on camel milk and its potential for export conditions.

Delegates will also get a rare insight into terrestrial animals in the UAE, by Dr Reza Khan, Wildlife and Zoo management specialist from Dubai Zoo. Underlining the natural history of the UAE, he will cover coastal, sand desert and hilly terrain animal habitats and provide information on specific species native to the emirates.

“The Veterinary Outlook Forum is the perfect platform to share my views and ideas on terrestrial animals, as this is the meeting point for the region’s policy makers, technocrats and leaders from veterinary laboratories and institutions to discuss latest developments in the veterinary industry,” Dr Khan said.

Richard Pavitt, exhibition director of AGRA Middle East, and VET Middle East, said: “The 2012 editions of AGRA Middle East and VET Middle East promise to be the largest yet, as exhibitor and visitor interest remains strong from all sectors covered.”

“The exhibition will be buzzing as leading manufacturers and suppliers of agricultural and veterinary equipments take centre stage to showcase the latest agribusiness and veterinary products to importers, buyers and government officials from across the Middle East, while the two conferences present a unique platform for regional leaders and experts to debate crucial issues in food security and veterinary medicine distinctive to this region,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain animal show draws record visitors

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:11:15 GMT

A record 200,000 visitors flocked to Bahrain's second animal production show, which concluded at the Endurance Village in Sakhir yesterday (March 27)

The six-day event, organised by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry, focused on the importance of animal production and health and included 150 exhibitors from 32 countries.

It also featured an animal exhibition with breeds of farm animals, horses, dogs and cats, a bird show, Fish World, live shows, an outdoor theatre, children's stations, a farmer's market and educational zone.

"We've had more exhibitors - both international and local - more visitors and more areas," said Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister and head of the steering committee responsible for the Mara'ee event Dr Juma Al Ka'abi.

"Every aspect of the festival has exceeded expectations.

"It has been a huge undertaking and we our proud of the support we've had, with so many people travelling out to visit and take part in all the different activities we've had going on."

Dr Al Ka'abi said a major part of Mara'ee was trade and increasing Bahrain's animal production industries.

"Our ministry is helping in the adoption of industry best practices, techniques and capability building, in line with the national strategy for sustainable agricultural development and capacity," he said.

"As you see, Mara'ee is focussing on the importance of animal production and health and the ongoing enhancement of the benefits for individuals, investors and businesses. Technology and science also featured highly in the event showcasing the major role they play in the emerging trends, with emphasis on livestock, poultry and aquaculture."

Visitors were treated to performances by the famous Andalusian dancing stallions, some of the world's top horsemen, as well as local steeds from the Bahrain Royal Stud.

"For families, Mara'ee has been one of the most popular exhibitions we've ever had in Bahrain," said Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Under-Secretary and Mara'ee organising committee head Dr Nabeel Abu Al Fateh.

"The response from parents has been amazing, they have really taken advantage of all the different areas and activates, learning with their children and enjoying their time together."

School children were presented with trophies and certificates for their participation in three competitions - Know Your Animal, Reading and Photography, which were held over three days.

Sixteen public schools took part in the Know Your Animal competition, with Ahmed Al Omran Secondary Boys School coming first and Al Noor Secondary School for Girls second.

The Reading competition featured two categories - one for six to 10-year-olds and another 11 to 15-year-olds and three students from each were declared winners. Nine students were also awarded prizes for their entries into a photography competition. – TradeArabia News Service

Mena govts urged to address key farm issues

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:28:14 GMT

Mena governments have been urged by an agriculture expert to address food scarcity issues and safeguard meagre natural resources.

John Lawton, general manager of the Agricultural Technology Company in Saudi Arabia, said that food scarcity has become a crucial issue in the Mena region and delay in addressing this could result in food insecurity, very high costs of food and potentially, starvation.

“Food is set to become one of the major world problems and unless these issues are addressed now millions of people in future decades could face low nutrition levels or starvation,” said Lawton, who has more than 35 years of experience in the agricultural sector.

Lawton will speak about the use of undeveloped arid areas for intensive food production at the Agribusiness Outlook Forum – a feature of Agra Middle East, the leading agribusiness trade event in the region, taking place from April 2 - 4 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre.

Only about two per cent of land in the GCC region is currently arable, and this coupled with severe water scarcity, presents a significant challenge for the region to become wholly self-sufficient in producing its own food, he said.

Lawton contends however that with the right management, research and knowledge sharing, arid countries can become more self-sufficient, and ensure higher food production efficiency.

“The main barrier to cultivating arid zones such as those in the Mena region is the lack of adequate water resources, coupled with the inefficient and wasteful use of much of the already limited resource,” he added.

“Proper management skills and training at all levels is vital so that the return of this limited resource is maximised. Additionally, proper studies and full knowledge of the available water resources and proper management of these at all levels, from the government to the individual who applies the water can help to overcome the water scarcity issue.”

Apart from being widely experienced in farm management and machinery sales and consultancy, Lawton has also developed a large market for Alvan Blanch maize and barley flaking mills along with Supreme Total Mixed Ration (TMR) feeders in the last ten years, working with large farm groups in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman and Yemen.

Now in its second year, the Agribusiness Outlook Forum will feature a panel of international experts presenting delegates with a platform to discuss insights into food security and sustainable agricultural systems.

Being held under the patronage of Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, Agra Middle East is supported by the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water, Dubai Municipality, the Dubai Flower Centre, and the Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech). – TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain animal show draws good crowd

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 08:12:32 GMT

More than 15,000 people visited the Animal Production Show (Mara'ee) on its first day on Thursday at Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

The event, being organised by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry and held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad, will run up till Tuesday.

The last Mara'ee (Fields) event was held in November 2010 and attracted more than 100,000 visitors.

Speaking after the opening, Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi said, "We are currently working on a special market for small animal farmers and raisers, where they can showcase their products."

The farmers and animal breeders will also receive financial backing from the government in a bid to improve their living standards, said Dr Al Ka'abi after touring the expo.

They can turn their farms into fully-fledged businesses in co-operation with Tamkeen, he added.

"Also, new agriculture incubators currently being worked on by the ministry alongside the private sector and international organisations will certainly open up new opportunities for small farmers and raisers.

"It will mean that instead of having farmers listed as job-seekers, they will be able to run their own businesses and provide other Bahrainis with job opportunities.

"There are a lot of Bahraini investors looking for innovative agriculture and animal businesses and it is time small farmers and raisers were made aware of the doors open to them."

Dr Al Ka'abi said several innovative projects were in the pipeline to improve the agriculture sector, particularly animal farming. "We are currently working on making aquaculture another possible business opportunity for Bahrainis," he added.

An Omani delegation which is on visit to Mara'ee said it hoped to learn from Bahrain's experiences as the event is a unique exhibition that is unmatched in the Gulf region.

"We want to organise such production shows and implement advancements in animal agriculture in Oman and Bahrain is helping us a lot with ideas and visions," said Omani Agriculture Minister Dr Fuad Al Sajwani.

Jordanian Agriculture Minister Ahmed Al Khatab said Mara'ee was more advanced than any international exhibition in the field.

"It is comprehensive and has everything from the basics to the introduction of new technologies that have made exhibits more appealing and attractions more fantastic," he stated.

More than 200,000 people from the Gulf region are expected to attend the event which runs till March 27.-TradeArabia News Service

Joint efforts sought for better agri system

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 13:51:23 GMT

As the GCC faces challenges of food security due to a shortage of natural resources, an improved collaboration between its member states is necessary to devise a sustainable agricultural system, an industry expert said.

Prof Abdulaziz Al Harbi, Professor of Horticulture at King Saud University in Saudi Arabia added that amid an increasing population and climate change affecting agriculture, food as a strategic resource and commodity is a challenge that GCC countries must overcome together.

“There is lack of skill in the management of sustainable production systems and a need for more collaboration between the GCC countries to share internal experiences and integrate these between their countries,” he said, adding that the private sector is also a crucial element,” he said.

“Improving the cooperation at the government level first followed by private companies can help overcome management constraints and help build a long-term sustainable agriculture industry.”

Al Harbi will speak about sustainable agricultural systems in the GCC at the Agribusiness Outlook Forum – a feature of AGRA Middle East, the leading agribusiness trade event in the region, taking place from April 2 to 4 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre.

He said that scarcity of water is a limiting factor for agriculture in GCC countries in particular because most of its irrigated land relies on deep water resources. He added though that the latest greenhouse technology and designs can better utilise water irrigation systems.

“The efficient use of water can increase by using modern technology of irrigation and growing systems in greenhouses,” he noted. “Drip irrigation is widely used in protected cultivation, and modern irrigation systems such as deficit irrigation and modern growing systems like soilless culture in closed systems can also save water and improve production.”

“Additionally water budgets should be set for each activity and farmers should be trained to use them efficiently to maximise production and minimise costs.”

“Devising solutions as per the land requirements of each country and extensive research in the development sector along with implementation of advanced technologies in greenhouses can uphold a complete sustainable agriculture system,” he added.

Speakers will address crucial topics related to food security and discuss regional governments’ approaches towards the improvement of market-led agribusiness and investment decisions.

“The Agribusiness Outlook Forum is the perfect opportunity for representatives of agriculture industry in the GCC to discuss latest technologies, and develop important relationships with various authorities,” continued Al Harbi.

“The GCC states face the same problems in food security, water and natural resource scarcity, and this is the ideal platform to solve them,” he concluded. – TradeArabia News Service

Egypt's Citadel to grow crops in South Sudan

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 06:41:41 GMT

A unit of Egyptian private equity firm Citadel Capital plans to cultivate up to 40,000 acres of farmland in South Sudan to sell staple foods such as maize in the newly-independent nation, an executive said on Tuesday.

South Sudan seceded from Sudan in July under a peace agreement that ended decades of civil war with Khartoum, but the new nation is struggling with food shortages and widespread tribal and rebel violence.

The United Nations warns that around a third of the country's roughly 8 million people will need food assistance this year after bad weather and violence hit farming.

The young nation, one of the least developed in the world, also needs to cope with an influx of more than 80,000 refugees from Sudan's South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, where the army is fighting rebels.

Citadel is investing about $30 million to produce staples such as maize, sorghum and sunflower in the oil-producing Unity state bordering South Kordofan, project manager Peter Schuurs told Reuters.

'We have so far 4,000 acres and we will be planting this year, primarily maize with some sorghum and sunflowers,' said Schuurs, managing director of Concord Agriculture, a fully-owned Citadel unit.

'Our focus is food security in South Sudan... we will be supplying the local markets,' he said on the sidelines of an investment conference in Juba. 'We will plant the crop in June.'

The firm has leased land from Unity state to be developed with the help of local farmers who it trains and equips with heavy machinery.

Schuurs said Citadel plans to add between 6,000 and 8,000 acres every year to reach between 30,000 and 40,000 acres within three to five years, when the firm expects to make its first profit from the project. Total production would be around 67,000 tonnes at the start.

'There is a food deficit for hundreds of thousands (of tonnes),' he said, adding that the United Nations, South Sudan's army and local merchants would be customers.

A camp with refugees from South Kordofan is located close to Citadel's farming land. 'They will need to be fed,' Schuurs said.

Citadel expects a return of 15 to 20 per cent from the project, which it plans to reinvest in the Unity state farmland.

Like other investors, Concord is facing a long list of challenges doing business in South Sudan, which is struggling to set up a functioning administration.

The biggest headache is importing farming machinery to the landlocked nation from the Kenyan port of Mombasa along poor roads in Kenya and Uganda. Few paved roads exist in South Sudan outside the capital Juba.

It not only takes weeks to get the machinery but local officials frequently try to impose unexpected duties on the imports, Schuurs said.

'There are always challenges. At the border between Uganda and South Sudan there is a problem at the moment,' he said.

Promised by the government in Juba to be exempted from customs in the first 10 years of the project, Citadel now faces demands from South Sudan border officials.

'And then all of a sudden you get a duty of 20 per cent,' he said.

He said customs officials have become much stricter since a row between Sudan and South Sudan over oil payments escalated.

South Sudan needs to export its crude via Sudanese pipelines to a Red Sea port but has been unable to agree on a fee with Khartoum.

In January Juba shut down its entire oil production of 350,000 barrels a day in a protest at Sudan taking some oil for what it called unpaid transit fees. Since then officials have been scrambling to find alternative sources of revenue.

'There is no revenue from oil and all of a sudden they are looking for ways to generate revenues,' Schuurs said. 'The easiest way to generate money is to put up a road block and ask for a kind of a fine for a passing truck or car.' – Reuters

Empowering women ‘vital for world food supply’

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 06:41:41 GMT

Empowering female farmers in developing countries is crucial to solving the world's food problems as an era of food price spikes looms, a leading expert on agriculture told Reuters.

'If we're going to feed the world and in particular if Africa is going to be fed, we need every tool we can lay our hands on to make that happen and one component of that is to ensure that women fulfil their potential as farmers,' Gordon Conway, chair of the Montpellier Panel, said as the group launched a report on African agriculture.

'Women are constrained by the fact that they don't have enough access to productive resources and they don't have enough access to assets and if they did they could increase yields on farms by 20 to 30 per cent, which would have a really big impact,' he said.

If women upped their production by this amount, the agricultural output of developing countries would rise by between 2.5 and 4 per cent, potentially slashing the number of undernourished people by 12 to 17 per cent, according to the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

It is therefore crucial that women's needs and rights are at the heart of all rural development programs instead of merely being added on as an afterthought, Conway said.

'This isn't an extra - this is fundamental to achieving growth with resilience,' he said.

Women account for around 43 per cent of agricultural labourers in developing countries, according to the FAO.

Cultural issue

But poor access to resources like land, water, fertilisers, seeds and technical knowledge is limiting their productivity, Conway said.

'In many ways it's a cultural thing. Men tend to have the rights to land in particular and the rights to other resources ... the woman is doing the work but she hasn't got real access to what she needs,' he said.

'I think (women) often don't get good advice, they are dismissed and ... everywhere you go in Africa, particularly in rural villages, you can see that women are often regarded as second-class citizens.'

The majority of agriculture development officers, extension workers - government advisors who educate farmers about how to grow and market their crops - and bank employees in Africa are male but a growing number of female plant breeders and agrodealers is evidence of a shift away from male dominance of agriculture, Conway said.

African agrodealers, who run shops selling goods like seed and fertiliser, are being trained by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to advise customers, and are therefore helping to tackle the problem of a lack of access to male extension agents which female farmers face.

'Instead of relying on (extension agents) who are usually male, you start to rely on these little shopkeepers to provide advice and many of those are women and so the women feel more at home going in there to see what can be done,' Conway said.

This is very important in helping to ensure sustainable food security in Africa in an age of food price volatility, especially as global warming, increased meat and wheat consumption in emerging countries, and the use of food crops for biofuels put pressure on the world's food supply, he said. – Reuters

Bahrain animal show set to draw top crowds

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 06:41:41 GMT

More than 200,000 people are expected to attend the ongoing Bahrain Animal Production Show (Mara'ee) 2012, which opened last night (March 21) at the Bahrain International Endurance Village, Sakhir.

Organised by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry, the show was officially opened by His Majesty King Hamad. The event will run up to March 27.

Present at the opening ceremony were His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty and Supreme Council for Women president.

Ministers, Ruling Family members, diplomatic corps, MPs, Shura Council members, municipal councillors and guests also attended.

Despite the event being invitation-only last night, several families flocked to the venue, and were allowed in on directives from the leadership.

The last Mara'ee (Fields) event was held in November 2010 and attracted more than 100,000 visitors.

Technology and science will feature highly in this year's event, showcasing the role it plays in emerging trends, with emphasis on livestock, poultry and aquaculture.

A trade exhibition will focus on the provision of products and services relevant to animal farming, agriculture and technology, bringing international, regional and local companies together with a mission to improve animal production and health.

The free event, which will continue until Tuesday and is open from 10am to 8pm, has 150 exhibitors from 32 countries.

The King expressed his appreciation for the efforts exerted in organising the show, which he said reflected the ministry's care and concern for the animal and agriculture sector as well as food security.

"The show this year is unique due to the large participation of local, Arab and international companies," said the King.

He said this presented an opportunity to get abreast of the latest developments experts have made in this sector as well as the technological developments accomplished in the field of animal and agricultural production.

"The event is also an opportunity for exchanging expertise in this field."

The King expressed his admiration for the show, which underscored the ability and competency of Bahrainis in organising and hosting regional, Arab and international exhibitions, conferences and events.

"Two years ago, we didn't expect 100,000 visitors over three days, but this year over six days we are expecting more than double that number," said Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi.

"The first show's success was hailed by participants and exhibitors and it placed Bahrain on the map of international specialised exhibitions," he said.

"This year's event is divided into five sections: business, family, birds, aquarium and local farmers to ensure that we meet the needs of everyone. New attractions have been brought in and our show is way advanced than that held before as it has been staged according to indicators and people's needs, besides our exploration of advancements internationally.”

An operetta titled The Journey of a Rider was performed at the event. Pure-bred Bahraini horses, which belong to Royal Stables, were also showcased.

A show for Spanish horses that belong to the Royal Andalusia Equestrian School and another horseriding show performed by French rider Clemens Fifer were also held.

The King then honoured the winners of the show's competitions.

The Royal Stables won the best farm award. The best dog award was won by Al Mozdahir Farm, best falcon was won by Hassan Ali Mabrook Al Ka'abi and best cow by Saeed Abdulkarim Abdulla.

Dr Al Ka'abi presented the King with a commemorative gift before taking him on a tour of the Arabian horses' history exhibition. – TradeArabia News Service

Batelco backs top Bahrain livestock show

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 12:54:00 GMT

Batelco, the leading telecom service provider in Bahrain, will be the main sponsor of an upcoming animal production show in the kingdom.

Mara’ee Bahrain Animal Production Show (BAPS) 2012 is taking place from March 21 to 27 at the Bahrain International Endurance Village, Sakhir. Batelco was the main sponsor for the first BAPS which took place at the end of 2010.

The 2012 event will focus on the importance of animal production and health and will include 150 exhibitors from 32 countries. A fantastic range of animal themed side shows is also set to entertain visitors to the show.

Batelco has pledged BD30,000 ($79,570) to support the event that is being organised by the Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry.

Batelco is providing Wi-Fi throughout the exhibition trade area to facilitate data communications for participants and visitors at the event.

Batelco Group general manager Media Relations Ahmed Al Janahi said that Batelco was delighted to sponsor this unique event that will provide entertainment and education for residents of the Kingdom and the huge crowds of visitors that are expected to attend especially at the weekend.

Among the impressive lineup of entertainment will be twice daily shows of Comobailan Los Caballos Andalusian Horses, Fish World - creating an immense underwater environment, a bird show featuring a large display of exotic birds as well as an outdoor theatre, Farmer’s Market, Mad Science Mad Lab and lots of fun activities especially arranged for young children. – TradeArabia News Service

Bahrain mulls top plans for animal breeding

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 10:22:22 GMT

Bahrain could be set to become a regional centre for the import and export of live animals, said a senior government official.

Plans are in the pipeline to improve skills of the country's farmers and educate them about the potentially lucrative business opportunities available.

The sector may not have been viewed as an industry in the past, but it could be crucial to economic growth, sustainable development and food security, said Municipal and Urban Planning Affairs Ministry Under-Secretary Dr Nabeel Abu Al Fateh.

"We are working to meet our market needs through local importers, but are looking to have them become self-dependent in future with them even becoming strong exporters in the animal market as they expand," he said.

Dr Al Fateh was speaking ahead of the launch of a major animal production show taking place at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Sakhir.

The six-day show, being organised by the ministry, will be officially launched by His Majesty King Hamad on Wednesday and open to the public the following day.

It will focus on the importance of animal production and health, and will include 150 exhibitors from 32 countries.

"This show is an opportunity for farmers to get into business deals with internationally experienced animal production companies, establishments and firms, which in return will allow Bahrain to open up new business opportunities in exporting animals and breeding them for local usage," said Dr Al Fateh.

"We are providing veterinary services for local farmers and breeders as well as the necessary medication to ensure that animals are healthy and disease-free. Those we discover to be contagious are immediately put in quarantine or terminated in extreme cases.

"This is just some of the services we provide, but when unified GCC legislation comes into effect, more will have to be done considering that there will be regular trade, transport, caretaking and healthcare required in mass and on regular basis.

"We are working on our local legislation and will implement it soon."

Dr Al Fateh said while the show was operating at a loss, it was only in its second year and officials believe it will eventually become self-sufficient as it grows.

"There are many international sponsors that are sponsoring us this year, but it is just the beginning and more are needed if we are to cover over costs," Dr Al Fateh said during a meeting at the ministry's head office in Manama.

"We are now just interested in business deals with international companies, firms and establishments that will help farmers and in future when our farmers stand on their feet things are certainly set to change.

"Based on the King's directives, we have decided to hold the event every two years and for a week instead of three days to enable more business opportunities," Dr Al Fateh added.

The last Mara'ee (Fields) event was held in November 2010 and attracted more than 100,000 visitors.

Technology and science will feature highly in this year's event, showcasing the role it plays in emerging trends, with emphasis on livestock, poultry and aquaculture.

Dr Al Fateh said this year's show would also cater to the needs of families with several edutainment programmes and activities available.

"We want to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of animals and there is a lot input in that regard," he said.

"For example, we have come up with an animal maze in which people can scan the Quick Response code on the animal models set up, using their phones to learn details and specifics regarding the animal from origins to taking care of them," Dr Al Fateh added. – TradeArabia News Service

Experts develop salt-tolerant, high-yield wheat

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:28:03 GMT

Scientists in Australia have crossed a popular, commercial variety of wheat with an ancient species, producing a hardy, high-yielding plant that is tolerant of salty soil.

The researchers, who published their work on Monday in the journal Nature Biotechnology, hope the new strain will help address food shortages in arid and semi-arid places where farmers struggle with high salinity in the soil.

"This is first time that... a genetic variation that has been lost in plants though domestication has been reclaimed from a wild relative and put back into the plant," said lead researcher Matthew Gilliham of the University of Adelaide's School of Agriculture.

The researchers used a gene believed to be responsible for controlling the salt content in plants and that was isolated more than 10 years ago from an ancient wheat variety.

The gene makes a protein that is present in the roots of wheat and it helps block salt from travelling up the plant, Gilliham said in a telephone interview. Salt lowers yields and eventually kills the plant.

"When plants grow in salty conditions, the enzymes in the plants don't work very well anymore," Gilliham said.

"We crossed the gene into modern, commercially-grown wheat. It confers salinity tolerance by withdrawing the salts from the xylem, retaining them in the roots and stopping them getting up the shoots where the salt damages the plant and stops it from photosynthesising," he explained.

The researchers grew the new, improved wheat variety in soil with high salt content and found that it produced yields up to 25 per cent more than strains without the ancient gene.

"People will see how it works... maybe in five years it will benefit other varieties of wheat," Gilliham said.

He said farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa, Australia, the United States and Russia may also benefit from the modified wheat. - Reuters

Bahrain plans farm technology centres

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:28:03 GMT

Bahrain will introduce eight specialist centres to train more than 680 farmers in how they can use modern technology to improve their yields, said a senior government official.

Each will feature laboratories, a seed plantation chamber, sorting and chilling warehouse, feeding pump rooms and fresh water production units, added Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi.

The first phase of the project, costing BD1.5 million ($3.97 million), will take between six and 11 months to complete, he said.

He was speaking after laying the foundation stone for the project at the Hawarat A'ali Agricultural Development Centre in Salmabad yesterday.

Guests at the launch included ministry officials United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (Unido) director-general Dr Kandeh Yumkella and investment and technology promotion office head Dr Hashim Hussein.

Arab Centre for Entrepreneur Training chairman Shaikh Ibrahim bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, National Initiative for Agricultural Development secretary-general Dr Wahid Al Qassim and inJAz Bahrain chief executive officer Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa also attended.

Shops will also be provided to market the products grown by entrepreneurial farmers, at a cost of nearly BD1 million.

A third phase of the project will involve the construction of greenhouses, the cost of which will be open to private sector investment, said Dr Al Ka'abi.

'This initiative includes providing support to small farmers, agricultural guidance, tools, training on modern technology, loans and funds to improve productivity, protecting natural resources, agricultural investment from the private sector and building capacities in agricultural development,' he said.

'We hope it will effectively contribute in enhancing the sustainable agricultural development as a result of joint co-operation among the private and public sector and the specialised regional organisations, with the objective of building on human capabilities in agricultural development.'

The cost of the 'incubator' centres will be supported by Unido and Eskan Bank.

'The market place and the incubators will be launched at the same time, as without the market place, the formula will not be complete,' said Dr Al Ka'abi. 'This is stage one for the moment and we are now focusing on this area to face any challenges we may have.”

'There are around 680 farmers in Bahrain and I hope that all will benefit from the new technologies.

'Around 60 per cent of farmers are still using traditional methods of irrigation and once they are trained in using modern and environmentally sustainable technologies they can increase their productivity,” he added.

Speaking at the event, Dr Yumkella said the days of cheap food were over and communities must learn how to develop their own food produce.

'To put this project into a global context, by 2030 we need to increase the global food production by 50 per cent, and by 2050, by 75 per cent,' he said.

'As we increase food production, so will the global population, but climate change will devastate many places which are currently used for food production, so we cannot take the Earth or the environment for granted.

'However, if we continue in this way, with pollution and high use of energy, we will damage the process and there will be a real scarcity of raw materials and foods in the next few decades.' – TradeArabia News Service

India ends export ban on cotton

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:38:05 GMT

India will lift a controversial ban on cotton exports just a week after imposing it, allowing more supplies into a global market that is oversupplied and which is likely to further push down international prices.

The ban, announced unexpectedly on March 5, after a record 9.5 million bales had been shipped, ran into criticism from the influential farm minister, Sharad Pawar, and China, the biggest buyer of cotton from the world's second-largest producer.

Government ministers had taken into account the interests of farmers, industry and trade in deciding to lift the ban, a statement quoting Trade Minister Anand Sharma said on Sunday.

"A formal order will be made public tomorrow by the Government," he added.

Indian exporters had some 2.5 million bales outstanding for overseas sales when the ban - aimed at protecting domestic textile mills - was imposed. That put total supplies into exports since October 1 at 12 million bales - well above the government's projections of 8.4 million bales set in January.

"It's good news as far as (exporters) and farmers are concerned, said Nayan Mirani, vice-president of the Cotton Association of India, which groups exporters and traders.

"We must realise that we are a cotton surplus country and our surplus needs to be exported. These are short-sighted views that (the textile) industry sometimes takes by asking to ban cotton exports."

New York cotton futures, which had ended limit up on Monday when the ban was announced, closed lower on Friday after USDA estimated higher production worldwide. The May ICE futures contract closed down 0.76 cent to 88.80 cents per lb.

"There could be more downside pressure in international markets due to more supplies from India," said Chowda Reddy, senior analyst with JRG Wealth Management in Hyderabad, adding domestic prices could rally on supply concerns.

The short-lived ban is the latest policy U-turn by India on exports, as the country tries to balance the huge demands for commodities of its 1.2 billion population with its global role as one of the world's biggest producers.

The USDA upped world 2011/12 cotton production to 123.64 million (480-lb) bales, from 123.34 million and reduced world consumption to 108.72 million bales from 109.71 million in its report on Friday.

Cotton ended 2011 as the worst-performing commodity market of the year, falling 37 per cent from 2010 as record prices boosted output and decimated demand, while a shaky global economy scared off investors.

China is expected to cut imports by one million bales in 2012/13 from about 17 million bales in the current cotton year, according to the US Agriculture Department. – Reuters

Almarai raises $267m from debut sukuk

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:38:05 GMT

Saudi Arabia's Almarai Co, the Gulf's biggest dairy firm by market value, raised 1 billion riyals ($266.6 million) through a sukuk, or Islamic bond, issue on March 7, the firm said in a bourse statement.

'Almarai successfully issued sukuk for 1 billion riyals on March 7, 2012. The orders reached 4.7 billion riyals, 4.7 times oversubscribed,' the statement said.

It is the first time that Almarai has issued public debt, having begun roadshows for the offering last month.

HSBC Saudi Arabia was the arranger of the sukuk. - Reuters

Bahrain plans major agri sector boost

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 08:34:31 GMT

Bahrain plans to launch several greenery drives in various governorates, as well as prizes for agricultural development and educational courses to boost the agricultural sector in the country.

Plans include the development of the King Hamad Prize for Agricultural Development and introduction of an Agriculture Technology Diploma at Bahrain Polytechnic.

They will be launched under the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD), which was launched by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa in 2010.

It aims to unify all stakeholders and existing efforts to boost the agricultural sector and plan for its future development. It intends to enhance food security, increase greenery in each governorate and encourage small and medium-sized enterprises in agricultural development, said project co-ordinator Shaikha Reem bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa.

"The main idea is to serve the people of Bahrain and environment, find a way to help the middle class and make Bahrain a more beautiful and greener place, she said.

"One of the aims is to increase agricultural contribution to the GDP (gross domestic product) from below one per cent to 3-5 per cent by 2030. Food security is a big issue these days, so bringing up the GDP contribution is important."

The initiative has already benefited farmers by providing loans and grants though entities such as Tamkeen and the Ebdaa Bank. Other plans include introducing the latest technologies in agriculture such as hydroponic and soil-less gardening, proposing regulations, training workforce, creating job opportunities and spreading awareness.

The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation is planning an Agropreneur programme to transfer knowledge and technology from abroad to Bahrain. To help the initiative achieve its goals HRH Princess Sabeeka launched the King Hamad Prize for Agricultural Development at the Bahrain International Garden Show (BIGS) earlier this year.

It will be awarded in five categories: best company contributing to agricultural GDP, best small agriculture project, best governorate, private sector company which allocated part of its corporate social responsibility towards agricultural development, and studies and research.

Key objectives to be achieved from the launch of the prize include increasing greenery in Bahrain's governorates, the demand for Bahraini farmers and encouraging investment and entrepreneurship.

"The prize will be awarded once every two years and the first one will be presented by 2014," said Shaikha Reem. "It will include a cash award and benefits through government services."

The Agriculture Technology Diploma was another initiative launched by HRH Princess Sabeeka at BIGS to further develop agriculture in Bahrain and train those interested in developing a career in the sector.

Bahrain Polytechnic will offer the diploma and specialised courses through hands-on experience and tuition from specialists in various fields. Programmes to be offered include an Associate Degree in Primary Production and specialised qualifications in areas such as home gardening, irrigation design and soil management and hydroponics.

"They are still working on finalising the curriculum, but diploma students will be given agriculture training at the Howrat A'ali project," said Shaikha Reem.

It is a 900,000 sq m plot of land that was established in Salmabad in 1988 with the aim of promoting food production and making Bahrain self-sufficient. It already has 7,000 palm trees and produces dry hay for local livestock.

Shaikha Reem said several workshops about the diploma had been held and attracted both professional gardeners and hobbyists.

The initiative plans to support the diploma programme by bringing in more Arabic speaking teachers from ministries and other networks.

Nurseries

It will also help classes to be more hands-on by linking governorate nurseries to be used for hands-on learning experiences.

Project co-ordinator Noora Abdulla Kaiksow said all governorates were being encouraged to support the initiative and contend for the King's prize.

"When all governorates are working together it helps to unite communities and develop the field of agriculture in a professional way. We want them to make the country greener and also make it more environmentally friendly,” she said. – TradeArabia News Service

GCC investing heavily in overseas farms

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 06:03:42 GMT

The governments in the Gulf region are investing heavily in outside farmland acquisitions and leases besides injecting money into the domestic food production industry, according to an expert ahead of a major agriculture expo.

This is part of their two-pronged strategy to secure food supplies to the GCC region and safeguard against market fluctuations, said Richard Pavitt, the exhibition director for AgraME, the region’s largest agri business trade event, to be held in Dubai next month.

Agra ME, which runs from April 2 to 4, will host more than 180 global manufacturers and suppliers of agribusiness equipment and technology from 30 countries looking to showcase their products to importers, buyers and government officials from across the Middle East.

'Leading the way is Saudi, which is currently investing $23.1 billion in food security initiatives such as the allocation of $12.3 billion to the development of the food processing sector and the provision of $6 billion in financial and oil aid to Pakistan in return for agricultural land, said Pavitt, citing a report by research analysts Alpen Capital.

The UAE, he stated, has recently acquired or leased more than 1.4 million hectares of arable land in Sudan, Pakistan, and Morocco, while investing $1.4 billion in the country’s value-added food manufacturing sector, resulting in 150 food processing plants.

As part of plans to be completely self-sufficient by 2023, Qatar has invested $5.1 billion in various food security initiatives, including leasing 400,000 hectares of land in Kenya against a $3.5 billion loan to the Kenyan government, said Pavitt.

It has also established a $1 billion joint venture with Vietnam to provide 90 per cent of funds for investment in various sectors, including agriculture, he added.

Ensuring food security remains one of the most important issues for all GCC countries; according to the Economist Intelligence Unit, the six GCC states currently import 90 per cent of all food products.

The high reliance on imports mean the region is particularly vulnerable to price increases when supplies are interrupted, the expert said.

“Disruption in food imports, either due to policy restrictions by exporting countries or natural disasters, affects the GCC region significantly, thereby emphasizing the importance for the governments in the region to achieve food security in order to reduce their dependence on imports,” remarked Pavitt.

In its efforts to attain self-sufficiency in the fish sector and agricultural products, Kuwait allocated $80 million in 2011 to the newly established Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs & Fish Resources (PAAAFR), while investment in land projects in Sudan, Cambodia, and Vietnam is ongoing.

Meanwhile Oman has boosted its fisheries, modern irrigation systems, agricultural production and livestock breeding technologies with up to $361 million of investment in the past two years, while Bahrain has purchased farmland in India, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand, Turkey and Sudan, with 112 of their own food manufacturing plants.

The increased attention on food security and investment in the GCC is also reflected in the growth of Agra Middle East, which has tripled in growth since its first year in 2007.

The exhibition covers the five main sectors of agriculture including Agribusiness, Poultry and Livestock, Fishing and Aquaculture, Flower and Garden, and Agricultural Machinery and Supplies.

Added Pavitt: “Growing at an average of 50 per cent in exhibitor space every year, AgraME has established its presence as the must attend event by the Middle East’s agribusiness industry players.

'This year’s edition promises to be the largest yet as exhibitor interest remains strong from all the sectors covered by the event,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Australia set for bumper grains harvest

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 07:37:41 GMT

Australia is on track for another year of bumper grains and oilseed harvests with ideal growing condition forecast to boost production this year, which could add pressure on global prices.

Even though Australian farmers will reduce wheat plantings in 2012/13 in response to lower global prices, the world's fourth-largest exporter is expected to produce an above average crop after two straight years of record output, according to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES).

'It is already clear at the outset that seasonal conditions so far in 2012 should help set our agriculture sector on track for another strong year,' Australian Agriculture minister Joe Ludwig said on Tuesday.

'For the first time in more than 30 years the survey data shows both strong average farm business profits and positive rates of return for broadacre farms in all states and all broadacre industries.'

Australia's wheat output is expected to drop 13 per cent in 2012/13 from all-time high production of 29.5 million tonnes, while canola output during the year is expected to rise 5 per cent to 2.9 million tonnes and cotton harvest to a near record of around 1.1 million tonnes.

Planting conditions in Australia, typically the world's third largest sugar exporter and number four cotton supplier, are favourable ahead of sowing, thanks to widespread late summer rains, Paul Morris, executive director of ABARES said in an interview.

The benchmark US wheat futures are little changed so far in March, after finishing lower last month due to plentiful supplies. Last year prices fell 21.7 per cent.

US live cattle futures kicked off the month by posting an all-time high last week on fund buying that was prompted in part by hopes for stronger cash cattle prices due to drought-reduced supplies.

The lead April Chicago Mercantile Exchange live cattle contract posted a record of 131.200 cents per lb, topping the previous high of 129.775 cents set on February 22.

'We are seeing areas likely to come down simply for the relative returns for canola and barley compared to wheat,' said Morrison on the sidelines of an ABARES conference. 'We are also seeing some movement back into sheep as well.'

'World prices are pretty high at the moment and so are meat prices, so that is a bit of incentive to move back into livestock as well.'

According to a Reuters survey of 10 analysts, Australia's wheat output is likely to slide more than 15 per cent in 2012/13 from a bumper crop this year as lower global prices may prompt farmers to shift to other crops such as canola and barley.

Wheat output is expected to fall to 25 million tonnes in the year to June 2013, down from an all-time high of 29.5 million tonnes, which is estimated to have been produced this year.

Morris said the planted area for wheat in 2012/14 is likely to fall to 13.7 million hectares compared with 14 million last year.

'While we are forecasting a bit of reduction from 14 million-odd hectares for this year from historical terms we are still expecting a pretty big wheat area going in.'

World wheat stocks at the end of the 2011/12 season look set to eclipse the previous record set more than a decade ago, according to the International Grains Council (IGC), raising its forecast for production to an all-time high.

The IGC, in a monthly update, increased its forecast for world wheat production by five million tonnes to a record 695 million tonnes, partly reflecting higher estimates for Kazakhstan, India and Australia.

Global crop prices will retreat sharply this year as farmers around the world expand production to bring stability back to commodity markets and ease fears of food inflation, the US government has forecast.

After two years of razor thin stocks, world crop supplies, led by wheat, are recovering.

Morris said cotton prices were likely to be under pressure despite India banning exports.

'There is still quite strong production coming for many countries,' he said.

Even sugar prices are likely to face increasing pressure on high global supplies.

'There is strong production response to high prices, so we are starting to see that impact in the market,' Morris said. 'We think the stocks situation and high production overseas are going to keep downward pressure on prices.'

Sugar futures rallied to a 30-year peak of around 36 cents in February 2011 after a cyclone hit Australia, but have since fallen back.

'The relatively high commodity prices internationally even though they have come off a bit are providing a buffering effect for Australian farmers against the high Australian dollar.

That's fine in a short term, but if commodity prices soften significantly and at the same time the dollar was to stay high that it a risk for farmers.'

The Australian dollar hit a seven-month high of $1.0857 against the US currency this week. – Reuters