DOHA: Agricultural production in Qatar has shot up by 120 per cent this season compared to last year, according to Abdul Rahman Hassan Al Sulaiti, general supervisor of agricultural product yards at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME).
He said production amounted to 16,000 tonnes in the current season compared to 7,000 tonnes the previous season, exceeding all projections.
He said: “Yards in which local agricultural products are displayed are witnessing maintenance and development work. They would include buildings and other facilities so they are fully ready for consumers by early September.” He pointed out maintenance would cover five yards – Al Mazrouah, Al Wakra, Al Shamal and Al Shahaniya.
He said the produce available in the yards are local and farm fresh. They are not kept refrigerated as is the case with imports. The MME’s agricultural laboratory in its research department carries out regular tests to ensure the produce meets the highest specifications. Regular inspections are also conducted. They were usually done on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays but are now being conducted daily, he said.
He emphasised the aim of these yards is to ensure farmers can offer a variety of produce to consumers and also get a fair price without the involvement of intermediaries.
The MME is doing its part in helping farmers by providing boxes for vegetables at no cost and space to sell produce without any charge.
Al Sulaiti said another benefit is the affordable prices, which can be lower by QR3 to QR7 a box, compared to commercial markets. Summer vegetables have been introduced in the current year through the efforts of the MME in educating farmers and supplying them with seeds and other materials needed for cultivation, the official said.