Countries in the Gulf region have the ambition to become more self-sufficient and produce more sustainable fresh food locally. The region grapples with a myriad of challenges in its food ecosystem. The prevailing arid climate and water scarcity pose significant hurdles for agricultural production, leading to a dependence on food imports. Therefore, ensuring food security in the face of a rapidly growing population remains an ongoing effort. Moreover, the Covid pandemic and political instability in some regions around the world have underlined what the governments in the Gulf region countries already knew: food security is a problem of the greatest urgency.
The Netherlands can support in reaching this ambition through long-term partnerships and by sharing our extensive knowledge and innovative technologies. The Dutch horticulture sector provides for millions of people worldwide using technology and sustainable systems. With their combined knowledge, technology and experience, they can accelerate achieving food security and food safety in the Gulf region.
HortiRoad2theGulf is a public-private partnership from the Netherlands, established to help the Gulf region in reaching food self-sufficiency. Leading horticulture companies, educational institutes, and the Dutch government, including the embassies in the region, work together within this consortium. The partnership is led by Dutch Greenhouse Delta and represents the entire value chain of horticulture. Their solutions are able to improve the value chain, update current greenhouse facilities and, to create new, more efficient systems, including advanced Controlled Environment Agriculture.
The cluster of horticulture organizations from the Netherlands is ready to work with local governments, investors, growers, and retailers to upscale the horticultural business in a sustainable way. By working together, they can develop new strategies and business models, which significantly improve sustainable food production and reduce the loss of food.
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