Saudi Arabia's keenness for food security prompted the country to invest and acquire agricultural land abroad. The agricultural projects that the Kingdom has initiated include King Abdullah's Initiative for Agricultural Investment Abroad and the $800-million Saudi Company for Agricultural Investment and Animal Production. Mohammad Al-Hussaini, Deputy General Manager, Riyadh Exhibitions Company (REC), said the Kingdom's food sector is currently expanding at an annual rate of 18.5 percent while food and agricultural imports account for 15 percent of overall imports that account for $17.3 billion. “Besides, the Kingdom is investing some $12.3 billion in domestic agriculture projects as well as to acquire land abroad to ensure food security,” said Al-Hussaini. He said REC will organize an exhibition entitled Saudi Agriculture 2011 under the patronage of Ministry of Agriculture at International Convention and Exhibition Center here from Sept. 19 to 22. With the participation of some of the leading regional and international food companies the event will serve as a platform for the country's ongoing investment projects in food and beverage production and enable Saudi Arabia to meet its increasing, long-term food requirements, Al-Hussaini said. He said several regional and international exhibitors have already signed up to attend the trade event, showcasing the latest in animal health and production, agricultural finance and banking, agricultural products and services, chemicals and fertilizers, cold storage and crop production and dairy farming and equipment, among others. “This year's exhibition will mark the 30th anniversary of Saudi Agriculture, a show that has grown exponentially over the years and has provided the perfect platform for food industry players to capitalise on the lucrative Saudi food market backed strong government support,” he said. Saudi Agriculture 2011 – the 30th International Agriculture, Water and Agro-Industry Show, which is accredited by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, will also be held concurrently with Saudi Agro-Food 2011 – The 16th International Exhibition for Food Processing and Packaging. The event will feature the latest products, technologies and services in areas ranging from frozen and chilled foods, confectionery, chocolates, health and natural foods, to presentation, processing and packaging equipment. Key policy-makers and high-ranking officials from Ministry of Agriculture and major agricultural producers, manufacturers, dealers, agents and distributors will attend the four-day event and discuss issues relating to the country's agricultural sector. The participants will also focus on issues relating trade that include fisheries and fish farming, greenhouses, handling and transport systems, irrigation and landscaping equipment, machinery and spare parts, organic farming, packaging systems and products, pesticides, pumps and pipe systems, seeds and soil nutrition products, spray machinery, water treatment technology and water management systems among others. __
