Saudi Arabia Sees Surge in Locally Grown Summer Grapes Amid High Demand and Quality
Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: Saudi markets are experiencing a notable rise in the availability and popularity of locally grown summer fruits this August, with domestic grapes standing out due to their superior quality and increasing consumer demand over imported alternatives.
According to the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, the Kingdom produces over 122,300 tons of grapes annually, effectively meeting nationwide market needs. These grapes, prized for their rich nutritional content and delightful taste, have also become vital raw materials in various food processing sectors, including juices, ice creams, and confectionery.
The Ministry attributes the growth of grape cultivation to robust government support, the adoption of modern agricultural practices, and the implementation of advanced farming technologies. This has led to improved efficiency and sustainability in grape production across the country.
Key grape-producing regions include Tabuk, Qassim, Hail, Al-Jouf, Madinah, Asir, and Taif. Among the popular varieties cultivated are Taifi, Halawani, Banati, Early Sweet, Crimson Seedless, Thompson Seedless, and Superior—all known for their exceptional quality and consumer appeal.
The diversity of local grape varieties allows for their extensive use in food industries while simultaneously boosting food security and contributing to the national economy.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting farmers throughout the Kingdom by providing technical assistance, advisory services, and financing facilities aligned with the comparative advantages of regional crops. Additionally, the government continues to promote modern agricultural technologies to increase production efficiency and enhance the Kingdom’s self-sufficiency in the agricultural sector.
