Latest news with #NationalFoodSecurityStrategy2051
Mid East Info
6 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
HE Amna Al Dahak Hails UAE-China Ties as Unique Model of Successful Cooperation in Various Sectors Including Agriculture, Food Security and Climate
The visit underscores the UAE and China's commitment to a comprehensive strategic partnership, moving beyond traditional ties to address global challenges collaboratively. Her Excellency toured the UAE-China Friendship Forest of Date Palm, a landmark initiative symbolizing enduring bilateral ties and agricultural cooperation. The diverse UAE delegation engaged with leading Chinese institutions in climate action, sustainable agriculture, and food security, fostering knowledge exchange and identifying joint initiatives. Dubai,July 2025 – Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, recently concluded a high-level visit to the People's Republic of China (July 7-10, 2025). The visit aimed to significantly advance the strategic partnership between the two nations, focusing on critical areas of climate action, sustainable agriculture, and food security. Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak emphasised the unique nature of the UAE-China relationship, stating, 'The historical bonds between the UAE and China have evolved beyond traditional relations into a comprehensive and interconnected strategic partnership. This collaboration serves as a unique model for successful cooperation across various fields and projects, serving the mutual interests of both nations and supporting stability and sustainable development regionally and globally.' Her Excellency added, 'The UAE is an active partner for the People's Republic of China, serving as a pivotal gateway to the Middle East and African markets. Bilateral ties in sustainable agriculture and climate issues have been paramount, with both countries committed to finding effective solutions. Given that the National Food Security Strategy 2051 is a cornerstone of the UAE's national priorities, we seek to strengthen these relations and leverage China's advanced capabilities in agricultural innovation, integrating them with our ambitious agricultural goals in the UAE. This will enhance both countries' food production capacities. We will also redouble bilateral efforts concerning climate issues and deepen cultural understanding and enduring friendship – bonds that transcend ordinary projects and support the shared aspirations of our friendly peoples.' A central component of the visit was the delegation's tour of the UAE-China Friendship Forest of Date Palm in Wenchang City, Hainan Province, where they were accompanied by Her Excellency Mariam Saif Al Shamsi, Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Guangzhou, People's Republic of China. Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak observed the substantial progress of this initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, during his 2019 visit to China, which involves planting 100,000 date palm seedlings across China. Her Excellency was briefed on the second phase of the project, delivered successfully in December 2024, which includes 23,500 palms additional to the 1,500 delivered in the first phase in February 2023. A third phase in September and December 2026 will see 35,000 additional trees, followed by 40,000 palms in the fourth phase in 2028. His Excellency Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, said: 'Our enduring relationship with China spans a vast array of fields, and this visit marks yet another significant chapter in the comprehensive strategic partnership between the UAE and China.' His Excellency emphasised: 'This collaboration, particularly in climate action, environmental preservation, agriculture, and cutting-edge research, is a direct reflection of the visionary leadership in both our nations, committed to building a prosperous future for our peoples and the wider world. Our delegation gained invaluable insights across diverse areas, from agricultural innovation to advanced pollution control, establishing a robust foundation for deeper ongoing and future collaboration. The UAE remains steadfast in forging ever-closer partnerships, championing sustainable development as a leading model of cooperation for the global community.' The delegation's itinerary, meticulously coordinated with the UAE Embassy in China, included visits to leading Chinese institutions. At the Beijing Tongzhou International Seed Industry Science and Technology Centre and Tsinghua University, the delegation explored cutting-edge technological innovations in seed science, circular economy practices, and research and development efforts. Discussions at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) focused on sustainable agriculture and technology transfer. The visit to the Beijing Pinggu Agricultural Sci-Tech Innovation Park highlighted progress in dairy science, smart breeding, and environmentally friendly practices, while meetings with leaders from the Coconut Research Institute covered tropical agriculture and sustainability. Environmental collaboration was a significant focus, with the delegation visiting the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Science (CRAES) to discuss air pollution control, clean transportation, and solid waste management. Meetings with prominent environmental leaders, including Mr. Ma Jun, Founder and Director of the Institute of Public & Environmental Affairs (IPE), addressed data transparency and corporate climate action, exploring avenues for future collaboration, including digital empowerment for environmental transformation. Concurrently, a group of the delegation led by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector, visited Inspur Company, a leading provider of cloud computing and big data services. This visit explored the pivotal role of technology in advancing environmental solutions, including tours of the Comprehensive Experiment Centre, its Exhibition Hall, the Ultra-microbalance Laboratory, the Joint Laboratory for Electron Microscopy Analysis of Atmospheric Particles, and the Hazardous Waste Identification and Risk Control Laboratory. Insights were also gained from the Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Vehicle Emission Control and Simulation and the Supersite for Urban Air Comprehensive Observation and Research, focusing on environmental safety and atmospheric pollution control measures. The diverse UAE delegation accompanying Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak included senior officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), such as His Excellency Mohammad Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary; and HE Dr. Mohammed Salman Alhammadi Assistant Undersecretary, Food Diversity Sector. The delegation also comprised senior leaders from key agricultural entities, universities, and leading research institutions in the UAE, including HE Rashed Mohammed Al Shariqi, Member of the Board of Directors of the National Agricultural Center, Former Member of the Federal National Council, and Former Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.; HE Eng. Ahmed Khalid Othman, Executive Director of Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA)/Acting Deputy DG of Operational Affairs; HE Dr. Tarifa Ajeif Alzaabi, Director General of International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), HE Dhafer Al Qasimi CEO, Silal – Food and Technology L.L.C; HE Mohammed Ghanem Almansoori, Executive VP, Al Foah Dates Company and Head of the UAE Executive Team for the 'UAE-China Friendship Forest of Date Palm 'project; and Prof. Ahmed Ali Alraeesi Vice Chancellor, United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). Other entities represented in the delegation included UAE Embassy in Beijing; the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; National Agricultural Center; and Dubai Environment Authority. This composition underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering expertise exchange and exploring collaborative opportunities across government, academia, and the private sector, further solidifying the comprehensive partnership built on shared values. This visit has laid a robust foundation for future joint initiatives, reaffirming the UAE's unwavering commitment to international cooperation in building a food-secure and more sustainable world. The integrated approach, uniting government, academic, and private sector expertise, ensures tangible outcomes from these vital international partnerships.
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Minister emphasises unique model of UAE-China relations
Dr Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, recently concluded a high-level visit to the People's Republic of China. The visit aimed to significantly advance the strategic partnership between the two nations, focusing on critical areas of climate action, sustainable agriculture, and food security. Dr Al Dahak emphasised the unique nature of the UAE-China relationship, stating, 'The historical bonds between the UAE and China have evolved beyond traditional relations into a comprehensive and interconnected strategic partnership. This collaboration serves as a unique model for successful cooperation across various fields and projects, serving the mutual interests of both nations and supporting stability and sustainable development regionally and globally.' She added, 'The UAE is an active partner for the People's Republic of China, serving as a pivotal gateway to the Middle East and African markets. Bilateral ties in sustainable agriculture and climate issues have been paramount, with both countries committed to finding effective solutions. Given that the National Food Security Strategy 2051 is a cornerstone of the UAE's national priorities, we seek to strengthen these relations and leverage China's advanced capabilities in agricultural innovation, integrating them with our ambitious agricultural goals in the UAE. This will enhance both countries' food production capacities. We will also redouble bilateral efforts concerning climate issues and deepen cultural understanding and enduring friendship – bonds that transcend ordinary projects and support the shared aspirations of our friendly peoples.' A central component of the visit was the delegation's tour of the UAE-China Friendship Forest of Date Palm in Wenchang City, Hainan Province, where they were accompanied by Her Excellency Mariam Saif Al Shamsi, Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Guangzhou, People's Republic of China. Dr. Al Dahak observed the substantial progress of this initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, during his 2019 visit to China, which involves planting 100,000 date palm seedlings across China. She was briefed on the second phase of the project, delivered successfully in December 2024, which includes 23,500 palms additional to the 1,500 delivered in the first phase in February 2023. A third phase in September and December 2026 will see 35,000 additional trees, followed by 40,000 palms in the fourth phase in 2028. Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, said: 'Our enduring relationship with China spans a vast array of fields, and this visit marks yet another significant chapter in the comprehensive strategic partnership between the UAE and China.' He emphasised: 'This collaboration, particularly in climate action, environmental preservation, agriculture, and cutting-edge research, is a direct reflection of the visionary leadership in both our nations, committed to building a prosperous future for our peoples and the wider world. Our delegation gained invaluable insights across diverse areas, from agricultural innovation to advanced pollution control, establishing a robust foundation for deeper ongoing and future collaboration. The UAE remains steadfast in forging ever-closer partnerships, championing sustainable development as a leading model of cooperation for the global community.' The delegation's itinerary, meticulously coordinated with the UAE Embassy in China, included visits to leading Chinese institutions. At the Beijing Tongzhou International Seed Industry Science and Technology Centre and Tsinghua University, the delegation explored cutting-edge technological innovations in seed science, circular economy practices, and research and development efforts. Discussions at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) focused on sustainable agriculture and technology transfer. The visit to the Beijing Pinggu Agricultural Sci-Tech Innovation Park highlighted progress in dairy science, smart breeding, and environmentally friendly practices, while meetings with leaders from the Coconut Research Institute covered tropical agriculture and sustainability. Environmental collaboration was a significant focus, with the delegation visiting the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Science (CRAES) to discuss air pollution control, clean transportation, and solid waste management. Meetings with prominent environmental leaders, including Ma Jun, Founder and Director of the Institute of Public & Environmental Affairs (IPE), addressed data transparency and corporate climate action, exploring avenues for future collaboration, including digital empowerment for environmental transformation. Concurrently, a group of the delegation led by Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector, visited Inspur Company, a leading provider of cloud computing and big data services. This visit explored the pivotal role of technology in advancing environmental solutions, including tours of the Comprehensive Experiment Centre, its Exhibition Hall, the Ultra-microbalance Laboratory, the Joint Laboratory for Electron Microscopy Analysis of Atmospheric Particles, and the Hazardous Waste Identification and Risk Control Laboratory.
Web Release
7 days ago
- Business
- Web Release
HE Amna Al Dahak Hails UAE-China Ties as Unique Model of Successful Cooperation in Various Sectors Including Agriculture, Food Security and Climate
Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, recently concluded a high-level visit to the People's Republic of China (July 7-10, 2025). The visit aimed to significantly advance the strategic partnership between the two nations, focusing on critical areas of climate action, sustainable agriculture, and food security. Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak emphasised the unique nature of the UAE-China relationship, stating, 'The historical bonds between the UAE and China have evolved beyond traditional relations into a comprehensive and interconnected strategic partnership. This collaboration serves as a unique model for successful cooperation across various fields and projects, serving the mutual interests of both nations and supporting stability and sustainable development regionally and globally.' Her Excellency added, 'The UAE is an active partner for the People's Republic of China, serving as a pivotal gateway to the Middle East and African markets. Bilateral ties in sustainable agriculture and climate issues have been paramount, with both countries committed to finding effective solutions. Given that the National Food Security Strategy 2051 is a cornerstone of the UAE's national priorities, we seek to strengthen these relations and leverage China's advanced capabilities in agricultural innovation, integrating them with our ambitious agricultural goals in the UAE. This will enhance both countries' food production capacities. We will also redouble bilateral efforts concerning climate issues and deepen cultural understanding and enduring friendship – bonds that transcend ordinary projects and support the shared aspirations of our friendly peoples.' A central component of the visit was the delegation's tour of the UAE-China Friendship Forest of Date Palm in Wenchang City, Hainan Province, where they were accompanied by Her Excellency Mariam Saif Al Shamsi, Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Guangzhou, People's Republic of China. Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak observed the substantial progress of this initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, during his 2019 visit to China, which involves planting 100,000 date palm seedlings across China. Her Excellency was briefed on the second phase of the project, delivered successfully in December 2024, which includes 23,500 palms additional to the 1,500 delivered in the first phase in February 2023. A third phase in September and December 2026 will see 35,000 additional trees, followed by 40,000 palms in the fourth phase in 2028. His Excellency Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, UAE Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, said: 'Our enduring relationship with China spans a vast array of fields, and this visit marks yet another significant chapter in the comprehensive strategic partnership between the UAE and China.' His Excellency emphasised: 'This collaboration, particularly in climate action, environmental preservation, agriculture, and cutting-edge research, is a direct reflection of the visionary leadership in both our nations, committed to building a prosperous future for our peoples and the wider world. Our delegation gained invaluable insights across diverse areas, from agricultural innovation to advanced pollution control, establishing a robust foundation for deeper ongoing and future collaboration. The UAE remains steadfast in forging ever-closer partnerships, championing sustainable development as a leading model of cooperation for the global community.' The delegation's itinerary, meticulously coordinated with the UAE Embassy in China, included visits to leading Chinese institutions. At the Beijing Tongzhou International Seed Industry Science and Technology Centre and Tsinghua University, the delegation explored cutting-edge technological innovations in seed science, circular economy practices, and research and development efforts. Discussions at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) focused on sustainable agriculture and technology transfer. The visit to the Beijing Pinggu Agricultural Sci-Tech Innovation Park highlighted progress in dairy science, smart breeding, and environmentally friendly practices, while meetings with leaders from the Coconut Research Institute covered tropical agriculture and sustainability. Environmental collaboration was a significant focus, with the delegation visiting the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Science (CRAES) to discuss air pollution control, clean transportation, and solid waste management. Meetings with prominent environmental leaders, including Mr. Ma Jun, Founder and Director of the Institute of Public & Environmental Affairs (IPE), addressed data transparency and corporate climate action, exploring avenues for future collaboration, including digital empowerment for environmental transformation. Concurrently, a group of the delegation led by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector, visited Inspur Company, a leading provider of cloud computing and big data services. This visit explored the pivotal role of technology in advancing environmental solutions, including tours of the Comprehensive Experiment Centre, its Exhibition Hall, the Ultra-microbalance Laboratory, the Joint Laboratory for Electron Microscopy Analysis of Atmospheric Particles, and the Hazardous Waste Identification and Risk Control Laboratory. Insights were also gained from the Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Vehicle Emission Control and Simulation and the Supersite for Urban Air Comprehensive Observation and Research, focusing on environmental safety and atmospheric pollution control measures. The diverse UAE delegation accompanying Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak included senior officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), such as His Excellency Mohammad Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary; and HE Dr. Mohammed Salman Alhammadi Assistant Undersecretary, Food Diversity Sector. The delegation also comprised senior leaders from key agricultural entities, universities, and leading research institutions in the UAE, including HE Rashed Mohammed Al Shariqi, Member of the Board of Directors of the National Agricultural Center, Former Member of the Federal National Council, and Former Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.; HE Eng. Ahmed Khalid Othman, Executive Director of Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA)/Acting Deputy DG of Operational Affairs; HE Dr. Tarifa Ajeif Alzaabi, Director General of International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), HE Dhafer Al Qasimi CEO, Silal – Food and Technology L.L.C; HE Mohammed Ghanem Almansoori, Executive VP, Al Foah Dates Company and Head of the UAE Executive Team for the 'UAE-China Friendship Forest of Date Palm 'project; and Prof. Ahmed Ali Alraeesi Vice Chancellor, United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). Other entities represented in the delegation included UAE Embassy in Beijing; the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; National Agricultural Center; and Dubai Environment Authority. This composition underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering expertise exchange and exploring collaborative opportunities across government, academia, and the private sector, further solidifying the comprehensive partnership built on shared values. This visit has laid a robust foundation for future joint initiatives, reaffirming the UAE's unwavering commitment to international cooperation in building a food-secure and more sustainable world. The integrated approach, uniting government, academic, and private sector expertise, ensures tangible outcomes from these vital international partnerships.
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
How UAE plans to boost Aquaculture by cutting red tape, backing research, and targeting exports
The UAE launches its Aquaculture Toolkit to guide sustainable seafood farming, boost exports, and strengthen national food security/Representative Image The UAE's aquaculture and fisheries sector is undergoing major expansion, backed by a national strategy that balances economic diversification, sustainability, and food security. According to Dr. Ebrahim Abdulla Husain Al Jamali, Director of the Fisheries Sustainability Department at MOCCAE, the ministry is intensifying efforts to scale aquaculture production and enter high-demand export markets while strengthening the country's food system. Driving Exports and Global Competitiveness Speaking to local news outlet Aletihad , Dr. Al Jamali said the ministry aims to position the UAE as a regional leader in premium aquaculture exports, responding to rising international demand. 'This strategic push includes expanding access to new global markets, with a particular focus on regions demonstrating strong demand for high-quality, sustainably farmed seafood,' he said. 'The strategy also involves promoting species with proven market acceptance and significant export potential.' In 2022, UAE aquaculture production reached 3,526.5 tonnes, with growth expected through farm expansion and advanced production technology. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo 'The goal is to position the UAE as a leading regional exporter of premium aquaculture products, while simultaneously supporting broader economic diversification and sustainable growth objectives,' Dr. Al Jamali added. Enhancing National Food Security Aquaculture plays a vital role in the National Food Security Strategy 2051, especially as seafood remains a dietary staple in the UAE. Per capita seafood consumption stood at 26.4kg in 2022, exceeding the global average Consumer behaviour studies have guided policy to better align production with domestic demand 'The ministry is actively streamlining aquaculture development by significantly simplifying licensing procedures, eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, and prioritising environmental sustainability,' said Dr. Al Jamali. MOCCAE is also providing: Technical support and advisory services to local farmers Dedicated investor guidance during the licensing process Digital services for licensing, live fish importation, and farm operation management An advanced permit system ensures strict biosecurity controls at ports of entry, with permits valid for up to three months and options for export/re-export of products. 'These smart services foster a business-friendly environment… encouraging private sector engagement within the aquaculture industry,' he noted. Research, Innovation and Sustainable Expansion The ministry is also investing in research and development in collaboration with the private sector, exploring the commercial viability of new local fish species. A key innovation is the UAE Aquaculture Toolkit, developed in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It provides an operational and scientific foundation for the sector and includes: Atlas of Potential Offshore Aquaculture Zones Consumer Preferences Study Biosecurity Guidelines for disease control at the farm level 'These consumer insights directly inform policy, guiding the sector to focus production on high-demand species that exhibit excellent taste, texture, and growth performance,' said Dr. Al Jamali. 'They also highlight the need to invest in modern production systems, such as Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) to maintain consistent quality.' Using insights from the toolkit, the ministry is finalizing a National Aquaculture Development Plan. The plan aims 'to expand farms, diversify production, ensure sustainability (environmental, social, economic), improve investment, boost GDP contribution, and create export opportunities,' he explained. Framework for Responsible Growth MOCCAE's aquaculture initiatives are backed by strong legislative foundations, including: Federal Law No. 23 of 1999 – on the Exploitation, Protection, and Development of Living Aquatic Resources Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 – on Environment Protection and Development 'Together, these laws form a comprehensive and strong legal foundation that ensures the responsible growth of the aquaculture sector, effectively balancing industry expansion with the protection and conservation of the natural environment,' said Dr. Al Jamali.
Al Etihad
01-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
MOCCAE bolsters UAE aquaculture with focus on exports, sustainability and food security
2 July 2025 00:56 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)The UAE's fisheries and aquaculture sector has seen significant expansion in recent years, driven by strategies that balance sustainability with economic growth. Now, locally farmed fish not only cater to domestic demand but are also part of a broader push to boost exports and tap into high-potential global markets, according to an official from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). In an interview with Aletihad , Dr. Ebrahim Abdulla Husain Al Jamali, Director of the Fisheries Sustainability Department at the MOCCAE, said the ministry is actively working to expand aquaculture exports to meet rising global demand. 'This strategic push includes expanding access to new global markets, with a particular focus on regions demonstrating strong demand for high-quality, sustainably farmed seafood. The strategy also involves promoting species with proven market acceptance and significant export potential,' he said. In 2022, aquaculture production in the country reached 3,526.5 tonnes, with ongoing efforts to increase this figure through farm expansion and improved goal, he added, is to 'position the UAE as a leading regional exporter of premium aquaculture products, while simultaneously supporting broader economic diversification and sustainable growth objectives'. Boosting National Food Security Within the country, fish is a key part of the National Food Security Strategy 2051. Recent studies on consumer behaviour have found that the UAE's per capita seafood consumption —26.4kg in 2022 — exceeds the global average, underscoring the importance of this sector within the country's food system. The ministry has been leveraging such insights to tailor strategies, as it works towards enhancing aquaculture's contribution to building a stable and resilient national food supply. 'The ministry is actively streamlining aquaculture development by significantly simplifying licensing procedures, eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, and prioritising environmental sustainability,' Dr. Al Jamali said.'Complementing these regulatory efforts, comprehensive support programmes are in place to support local farmers.'Technical expertise and advisory services have been been made available to farmers, while investors benefit from dedicated guidance being provided throughout the licensing process, he added. In support of efficient farm operations, MOCCAE has launched an integrated suite of smart digital services that streamline aquaculture-related processes, including licensing and the importation of live fish and broodstock. Among these services is an advanced permitting system for importing live aquatic organisms, ensuring rigorous inspection at entry points to uphold biosecurity system enhances transparency and speed, with permits valid for up to three months and additional services available for exporting and re-exporting aquaculture products. 'These smart services foster a business-friendly environment… encouraging private sector engagement within the aquaculture industry,' Dr. Al Jamali said. Responsible GrowthIn a bid to innovate and expand production, MOCCAE is also investing in research and development with private sector partners, focusing on the commercial viability of new local species, Dr. Al Jamali said. A pivotal collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) led to the creation of the UAE Aquaculture Toolkit, which provides a scientific and operational foundation for modern aquaculture practices. Key components of the toolkit include an 'Atlas of Potential Offshore Aquaculture Zones', a 'Consumer Preferences Study,' and comprehensive biosecurity guidelines for disease prevention at the farm level. Consumer studies conducted as part of the Aquaculture Toolkit have provided valuable insights that guide production, marketing, and policy decisions within the UAE's aquaculture sector, Dr. Al Jamali said.'These consumer insights directly inform policy, guiding the sector to focus production on high-demand species that exhibit excellent taste, texture, and growth performance. They also highlight the need to invest in modern production systems, such as Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) to maintain consistent quality.'With insights gathered through this toolkit, a National Aquaculture Development Plan is in the works, Dr. Al Jamali said. This plan aims 'to expand farms, diversify production, ensure sustainability (environmental, social, economic), improve investment, boost GDP contribution, and create export opportunities', he added. Sustainability remains at the core of the UAE's aquaculture expansion. MOCCAE's efforts are underpinned by Federal Law No. 23 of 1999 on the Exploitation, Protection, and Development of Living Aquatic Resources and Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 on Environment Protection and Development. 'Together, these laws form a comprehensive and strong legal foundation that ensures the responsible growth of the aquaculture sector, effectively balancing industry expansion with the protection and conservation of the natural environment,' Dr. Al Jamali said.
