(MENAFN- The Peninsula) sanaullah ataullah |
The Peninsula
Doha: The QR1.6bn project for developing Strategic Food Security Facilities (SFSF) at Hamad port has been completed, in a boost to Qatar's food security efforts.
This vital project, spread over an area of approximately 53 hectares, comes in line with the Qatar National Food Security Strategy, and will contribute to enhancing the State's reserve capabilities, as well as securing, strengthening and developing the strategic stock system for food, consumer, and catering goods.
“The SFSF has been built and now we are in the phase of operation,” said Director of Food Security Department of the Ministry of Municipality, Dr. Masoud Jarallah Al Marri.
Speaking to The Peninsula, he said that a committee has been set up with members from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Municipality and other authorities concerned for developing the best operation system for the facilities.
“SFSF will serve the food security system in Qatar and work as a commercial platform for export, import, and re-export,” said Al Marri. He said that the National Food Security Strategy 2023-30, which is expected to be launched soon, will incorporate business opportunities to be created by SFSF.
The project supports the country's self-sufficiency plans, aiming to create sustainable development for the coming generations. It is also an addition to Hamad Port's record of achievements, thus boosting its capabilities, modern facilities and advanced systems for increasing Qatar's trade with the world. Al Marri said the issue of food security is being addressed by ministries concerned. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is ensuring strategic reserve and diversifying sources of import.
“Food Security Department, the Ministry of Municipality, is also working as a Secretariat General of National Food Security Committee which is running the food security system of the country,” said Al Marri. He said that the Department is also coordinating with other ministries to ensure strategic stock of foods, enhance international trade, diversify sources of import and enhance local agricultural sector's contribution to the economy.
However, he said there are growing opportunities with increasing value of local production adding to national economy.“We are focusing greatly on this point in the new strategy which is derived from Qatar National Vision 2030, based on other state plans, including National Development Plan,” said Al Marri.
The Strategic Food Security Facilities project followed best global standards and manufacturing practices and deployed latest technologies for storage, packing, transportation and handling operations. The facilities will further consolidate Qatar's position as a regional leader in the area of strategic stock sufficiency.