Latest news with #Silal
Zawya
25-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ministry of Climate Change and Environment reveals agenda of Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025
RELATED TOPICS AGRICULTURE RELATED COMPANIES Abu Dhabi Media Silal Lulu Hypermarket FAO Gov Entities HE Dr. Amna Al Dahak: Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition is a strategic national platform to empower Emirati farmers and foster innovation in the agricultural sector. We aim to showcase the UAE's potential for sustainable and innovative agriculture; strengthening the resilience of Emirati farmers through sustainable practices and driving the adoption of modern technologies to enhance efficiency and environmental stewardship. We are committed to driving local production efficiency and pioneering innovative solutions to overcome climate and water challenges, thereby raising the market presence of local crops and driving economic growth. The launch of the National Agriculture Museum will narrate the story of our Emirati agriculture, tracing its journey from the past to the future. We invite all community members to participate in this national event as meaningful change starts with the community. Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025: The event's integrated knowledge programme is designed to advance agricultural transformation and position Emirati farmers at the heart of development policies. The four-day event will be headlined by 75 prominent speakers and feature more than 35 panel discussions, covering all aspects of agriculture in the UAE. A total of 35 workshops will be held, including 11 specialised sessions for farmers and 24 workshops for community members. The roles of international organisations, legislation, youth, innovation, entrepreneurship and scientific research will be among the key topics of discussion. Participants include 22 federal and governmental entities, over 60 private businesses including startups, 4 public universities, and more than 1,000 students. Silal is the Diamond Sponsor, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is the Platinum Sponsor. Al Ain Farms and Lulu Hypermarket join the event as the Gold Sponsors The Conference & Exhibition covers an area of 20,000 square metres with a capacity to host up to 11,000 attendees The comprehensive programme also includes Farmers' Exhibition and dedicated zones for Youth, Schools and Universities, Companies, AgriTech, and Government Entities. Register and participate in this pioneering national event via the following link: View the full agenda of sessions, workshops, and activities for the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition and the National Agriculture Centre at: Dubai, UAE: The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) announced the agenda and activities for the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. The event aligns with the nation's strategic vision to support the national agricultural sector and enhance its role in promoting sustainable food security. The announcement was made during a press conference held today at Emirates Towers in Dubai, attended by Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), along with several high-ranking officials from the Ministry, and representatives of various UAE-based media outlets. The details of the agenda of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 its activities, key initiatives, events, workshops and the participating entities were revealed during the press conference. The Conference and Exhibition will take place at ADNEC Centre Al Ain from May 28 to 31, 2025. Spotlight on Emirati Farmers During her speech, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak stated that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition serves as a strategic platform to empower Emirati farmers and foster innovation in the agricultural sector. The event's overarching goal is to support the UAE's sustainable food security ecosystem. Her Excellency said: "Emirati farmers are at the heart of this event. We are committed to empowering our farmers through strategic partnerships, knowledge sharing, and platforms to showcase their products and expertise. Our food security hinges on well-supported farmers, and we are dedicated to providing them with the resources they need to thrive." Regarding the key outcomes of the event, Her Excellency Al Dahak said: ' By highlighting national agricultural potential, supporting Emirati farmers, and promoting the use of modern technologies such as smart and vertical farming, the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition will be a strategic platform to advance agricultural transformation in the country. We also hope to improve local production efficiency by presenting innovative solutions to combat climate and water challenges. Our aim is to promote the use of local produce in the UAE. We are committed to integrating agriculture into the fabric of our society by actively engaging diverse communities in sustainable farming practices. Our ambition is to pioneer an exemplary Emirati model of agricultural sustainability, serving as a global benchmark for responsible food production. This model is supported by a comprehensive suite of plans and initiatives and powered by collaboration with relevant entities. This event is poised to become a turning point in our nation's agricultural journey, inspiring and contributing to building a sustainable and food secure future for the UAE and the world.' Launch of the first ever National Agriculture Museum HE Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak also announced the launch of the National Agriculture Museum, which will be inaugurated as part of the event's activities. This will be the first national institution dedicated to the history of agriculture in the UAE. It documents the evolution of agriculture, showcasing its shift from traditional practices to smart and sustainable methods. The Museum will feature a range of interactive exhibits, documentary displays and digital media, welcoming visitors of all ages to explore and experience firsthand how farming has progressed over the years. Additionally, it will offer insights into the nation's plans for developing smart agriculture and its applications. Her Excellency said: "This Museum will become a source of inspiration for future generations and a platform through which the community can deepen its understanding of the UAE's rich agricultural heritage." Building a Robust and Sustainable Agricultural Ecosystem in the UAE Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak announced the event's main partners and sponsors, highlighting that the success of the inaugural edition will depend significantly on the strength of the national and international partnerships established to support Emirati farmers and promote sustainable agriculture across the UAE. Her Excellency stated: "We welcome Silal, a leading national company in agricultural solutions and supply chain management, as the Diamond sponsor of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025. Silal has a proven track record of contributing to the growth of the UAE's agricultural sector. Its participation will be a major value addition to the exhibition. We are also pleased to announce the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is joining us as a platinum sponsor of the event. This is a strategic collaboration that underscores the UAE's commitment to partnering with international organisations to strengthen food security both in the UAE as well as globally.' Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak added: "We are pleased to announce our partnership with Al Ain Farms and Lulu Hypermarket, who will be joining us as gold sponsors. TRENDS Research & Advisory is our research partner. These partnerships significantly enhance the event, enabling us to achieve key outcomes and build a sustainable agricultural future for the UAE." HE Dr. Al Dahak also announced Abu Dhabi Media Network as the event's main media partner, and the 'Dawahi Al Ain' platform as the youth digital media partner. A Platform for Youth Empowerment Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak stated that the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture, established in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the Federal Youth Authority, will serve as a platform to empower youth during the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition. The Council will engage youth in agricultural policymaking and encourage them to adopt innovative approaches that contribute to strengthening food security. Her Excellency said: "The youth are the backbone of our society and will be instrumental in forging a bright future for our nation. We are committed to empowering them to drive impactful changes in this key sector.' Her Excellency extended an open invitation to everyone in the UAE to participate in the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025, emphasising that entry will be free throughout the event. Her Excellency explained that the event aims to establish meaningful channels of dialogue among farmers, decision-makers, experts, and the broader public, reflecting a comprehensive approach to engaging the community in shaping the future of agriculture. Her Excellency added: "I would like to emphasise that the community is central to our food security goals. Whether you are a farmer or a student or a consumer, you are invited to join us as we rewrite the agricultural future of our nation and set forth on a journey to transform the sector. There is a whole spectrum of activities open to everyone to attend free of charge, because we believe that meaningful change starts with the community." A Comprehensive Programme for Transformation Towards a Sustainable Agricultural Future Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak outlined the event's comprehensive agenda, which features a variety of activities, reflecting the nation's agricultural transformation. Her Excellency said: 'We have a very rich agenda extending across four days, featuring 75 speakers including ministers, undersecretaries, directors of major federal, government, and local entities, as well as private sector representatives, experts, academics, and innovators. The conference is headlined by more than 20 keynote speeches, dialogue sessions, pitch decks, and numerous workshops and lectures, as well as educational and community events and exhibitions. The event will feature 35 workshops, including 11 specialised sessions for farmers and 24 workshops for community members.' Her Excellency added: "22 federal and government entities engaged in the agriculture and food sectors are participating in the event, alongside more than 40 private companies and over 20 start-ups. From academia, four national universities are making a significant scientific contribution to the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition through their extensive research capabilities. Additionally, several schools are participating, bringing the total number of male and female students taking part in the events and workshops to over 1,000.' Four Days of Activities Supporting Agricultural Transformation Covering an area of 20,000 square metres, the exhibition can host up to 11,000 attendees. Complete with inclusive and innovative zones, the exhibition will be a major draw for agriculture enthusiasts from all walks of life. The Farmers' Exhibition, showcasing a variety of local crops will be a major highlight, will also feature a special section on Emirati beekeepers and premium-quality honey products. The first day, held under the theme 'Government Action and Organisational Engagement', is dedicated to advancing global cooperation through dialogue with international organisations. It will facilitate discussions on agricultural policies and legislation. It will also highlight the crucial role of retail companies in supporting local food production. Furthermore, it will explore strategies to enhance sustainable livestock production, boosting both efficiency and competitiveness. The 'Ektifa' Foundation will present its beekeeping initiatives, alongside Saudi Arabia's experience in the same field. The second day, will cover 'Research Centres and Universities', featuring in-depth discussions on the vision behind the National Agriculture Centre and guidelines for supporting the sector. It will also focus on the role of innovation and scientific research in addressing environmental and climate challenges and the importance of farm waste recycling, highlighting the role of national universities in developing agricultural competencies. Additionally, the session will explore opportunities in the aquaculture sector. The third day will be dedicated to youth under the theme ' Our Youth for a Sustainable Agricultural Future '. It will also see the launch of the 'Youth Farmers Council' as a platform to strengthen active participation of youth in agriculture. It will include discussions on the role of families in promoting agriculture. It will also focus on instilling principles of environmental stewardship and national belonging in children as part of their upbringing. On the fourth and final day, the conference will focus on " Accelerating Agricultural Entrepreneurship". Attendees will explore agricultural project financing, discuss the realities and challenges facing farmers, and identify ways to transform entrepreneurial ideas into viable ventures. The fourth day will also feature the launch of the 'First National Agricultural Extension Forum,' where international organisations will exchange experiences. Discussions will highlight the importance of agricultural extension in supporting farmers and raising awareness about modern innovations. The dialogue sessions will focus on empowering farmers, the role of women in agricultural extension, guidance on best practices, and the global role of agricultural extension organisations. The fourth day will also feature a panel discussion with the winners of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award 'Innovation Category' to celebrate their achievements. Logistics and Programme of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition The event will feature a rich and diverse scientific and community-focused programme, including targeted sessions and workshops led by a distinguished group of experts and academics. In addition to this, it will offer community training workshops aimed at raising public awareness on sustainable farming practices. Youth and students will play a significant role in the event's activities. Several interactive sessions and workshops have been designed to engage young farmers, aspiring entrepreneurs, students and researchers. These initiatives aim to inspire the next generation to participate in agricultural activities and adopt home gardening practices as a first step towards achieving self-sufficient and sustainable food security. The conference seeks to create a national platform that brings together Emirati farmers and agriculture enthusiasts by showcasing the latest solutions and smart farming technologies. It will also promote community and urban agriculture, while encouraging home gardening as part of a sustainable lifestyle. The Youth Zone will play a significant role in attracting young people, a key demographic in the country, and encouraging young innovators to contribute to the development of the sector. The AgriTech Zone will display the latest smart solutions and modern agricultural practices. To support agricultural education, the exhibition will include a Schools and Universities Zone, which will offer students and researchers the opportunity to explore advanced agricultural solutions and take part in educational activities that foster a passion for agriculture from an early age, opening doors to future careers in the sector. Additionally, the exhibition will include a Community Zone, which will host several workshops for community members. The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition highlights private sector participation through the Companies Zone and Start-ups Zone, which will showcase the latest innovations and projects. A Government Entities Zone will be dedicated to presenting national legislation and initiatives supporting agriculture and farmers, with participation from key governmental stakeholders. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment invites all interested individuals, media representatives, and partners to register and participate in this pioneering national event via the following link: The full agenda, including sessions, events, and workshops, is available at: The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 is organised within the framework of the 'Plant the Emirates' National Programme, launched to realise the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for expanding green spaces across the UAE. Launched last year, this programme supports the UAE's agricultural development goals and sustainable national food security strategy. It encourages the local community to engage in home-based food production, expand green areas, support environmental conservation efforts and strengthen the positive perception of high-nutritional-value local products. The programme also enhances environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint through the promotion of fresh, local products.
Al Etihad
22-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Silal, China's SVG to launch 100,000 m2 Smart Agritech Hub in Al Ain Region
22 May 2025 14:11 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, have witnessed the signing of a strategic partnership between Silal and Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group (SVG), a Chinese company specialising in vegetable seed breeding and counter-seasonal partnership enables SVG to invest more than Dh120 million into developing a 100,000㎡ agritech facility in the Al Ain Region, marking a major milestone for the UAE and regional agriculture sectors. The facility will harness advanced technologies, including AI and robotics to drive precision, boost efficiency, and deliver sustainable, high-impact innovations across the agricultural value agritech facility will showcase SVG's advanced Shouguang Model of greenhouse technology, which will be adapted and optimised for the climate conditions of the UAE. It will feature a range of advanced greenhouse structures, such as intelligent photovoltaic glass greenhouses, thin film-connected greenhouses, and large-span solar project encompasses a comprehensive ecosystem that includes seedling cultivation as well as post-harvest processing, storage and distribution centres. The entire smart greenhouse system will be powered by solar energy, minimising the facility's carbon footprint and promoting environmentally responsible agricultural Alameri, CEO of Silal, said: "Our partnership with Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group aims to revolutionise the UAE's Agritech sector. By combining SVG's world-leading expertise in greenhouse technology with Silal's commitment to innovation and sustainability, we are creating a cutting-edge model for innovative agriculture that can be replicated across the region and beyond. Ming Yang, Founder of Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group, said: "Abu Dhabi's forward-thinking approach and its willingness to embrace new technologies make it a vital hub for agritech innovation. In addition, the region's unique climate conditions make it a crucial testing ground for new technologies and solutions. Therefore, our partnership with Silal provides an unparalleled opportunity to refine our advanced technologies."The facility will integrate AI and robotics to optimise every stage of cultivation, enabling precision planting, accelerated harvesting, and greater operational efficiency. Integrated technologies include intelligent climate control, automated irrigation, robotic harvesting, and advanced AI-driven research and a dozen crop varieties – including tomatoes, cucumbers, melons and strawberries—will be cultivated with enhanced traits for superior taste, resilience and productivity. Smart resource management will reduce water and fertiliser usage by up to 30 per cent, promoting sustainability and environmental project will be supported by AI labs, technology testing zones, and a sensory experience centre, alongside advanced water treatment systems, modular purification units, mushroom production areas, energy storage solutions, and dedicated employee accommodations. Complementing production, a fully equipped post-harvest complex will include cold storage, automated sorting lines, and export-ready logistics to maintain product integrity and ensure seamless distribution to domestic and international markets. Make it in the Emirates Continue full coverage Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
The Star
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
China's ‘vegetable capital' to test farming know-how in UAE's harsh deserts
A prominent Chinese city known for vegetable farming has agreed to build a smart agriculture centre in the UAE. — SCMP Shouguang, a city in eastern China known for its copious vegetable production, is building a 100,000-square-meter centre for smart agriculture in the harsh deserts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to export the country's technological advances in farming. Leading UAE agritech firm Silal signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group on Monday to co-invest 120mil dirham (RM 139.09mil or US$32.67mil) in the centre to transform desert farming in the Middle Eastern country, state news agency Xinhua reported. The collaboration – part of a global outreach campaign by what is colloquially referred to as China's 'vegetable capital' – is another instance of Beijing exporting agricultural know-how to countries taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative, an infrastructure-driven strategy for regional connectivity. The new facility will make use of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics to enhance the efficiency and precision of seeding, climate control, irrigation and harvesting. It will support the cultivation of over 10 crop varieties, Xinhua said, including tomatoes, cucumbers, melons and strawberries. 'Abu Dhabi, as a frontier for agricultural technology innovation, offers a visionary platform and a real-world test bed for deploying advanced systems in extreme climates,' Yang Ming, founder of the group, was quoted as saying. Silal CEO Saleem al-Ameri said the collaboration would serve as a model for agricultural innovation across the Persian Gulf, contributing to a scalable and sustainable framework for regional development. The facility will feature greenhouse systems imported from Shouguang and customised for the UAE's environment. These include smart photovoltaic glasshouses, film-connected structures, and large-span solar greenhouses, Xinhua said. Supporting infrastructure will include an AI lab, technology testing zones, water treatment systems, edible fungus cultivation areas and a cold chain logistics centre – creating an end-to-end agricultural ecosystem from seedling to export, the companies said. Monday's deal is in alignment with broader trends in China's agricultural trade. In April, the General Administration of Customs reported that exports of pesticide formulations to countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative rose 15.5% in the first quarter, while agricultural machinery exports to those same countries surged 37.2%. Shouguang, which supplies an annual 9 million tonnes of vegetables to China, is embracing digital transformation as its international footprint grows. One of the major enterprises in this process, Shandong Lisente Agricultural Technology, has established 272 farming zones across 29 countries since its founding 15 years ago, according to local news app Haibao. Agriculture minister Han Jun noted in a February article in Qiushi, the top theoretical journal of the Communist Party, that the country's farming technology has reached the 'global first tier', boasting a 63.2% contribution rate to agricultural progress, improved seeds covering more than 96% of farmland and a mechanisation rate above 75%. However, the sector is in a critical moment of transition as it shifts toward independent innovation, Han said, as frontier disciplines such as gene editing, synthetic biology, and AI are likely to shape the future of global agritech. – South China Morning Post
South China Morning Post
22-05-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
China's ‘vegetable capital' to test farming know-how in UAE's harsh deserts
Shouguang, a city in eastern China known for its copious vegetable production, is building a 100,000-square-meter centre for smart agriculture in the harsh deserts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to export the country's technological advances in farming. Leading UAE agritech firm Silal signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group on Monday to co-invest 120 million dirham (US$32.67 million) in the centre to transform desert farming in the Middle Eastern country, state news agency Xinhua reported. The collaboration – part of a global outreach campaign by what is colloquially referred to as China's 'vegetable capital' – is another instance of Beijing exporting agricultural know-how to countries taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative , an infrastructure-driven strategy for regional connectivity. The new facility will make use of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics to enhance the efficiency and precision of seeding, climate control, irrigation and harvesting. It will support the cultivation of over 10 crop varieties, Xinhua said, including tomatoes, cucumbers, melons and strawberries. 'Abu Dhabi, as a frontier for agricultural technology innovation, offers a visionary platform and a real-world test bed for deploying advanced systems in extreme climates,' Yang Ming, founder of the group, was quoted as saying. Silal CEO Saleem al-Ameri said the collaboration would serve as a model for agricultural innovation across the Persian Gulf, contributing to a scalable and sustainable framework for regional development.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber and H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Witness Signing of Silal and China's SVG to Launch 100,000 m2 Smart Agritech Hub in Al Ain
ABU DHABI, UAE, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, witnessed the signing of a strategic partnership between Silal, Abu Dhabi's leading agri-food and technology company, and Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group (SVG), a prominent Chinese company specializing in vegetable seed breeding and counter-seasonal production. The partnership enables SVG to invest over AED 120 million into developing a 100,000m2 Agritech powerhouse in Al Ain, marking a major milestone for the UAE and regional agriculture sectors. The facility will harness advanced technologies, including AI and robotics to drive precision, boost efficiency, and deliver sustainable, high-impact innovations across the agricultural value chain. The Agritech powerhouse will showcase SVG's advanced "Shouguang Model" of greenhouse technology, which will be adapted and optimized for the unique climate conditions of the UAE. It will feature a range of advanced greenhouse structures, such as intelligent photovoltaic glass greenhouses, thin film-connected greenhouses, and large-span solar greenhouses. The project encompasses a comprehensive ecosystem that includes seedling cultivation as well as post-harvest processing, storage and distribution centers. The entire smart greenhouse system will be powered by solar energy, minimizing the facility's carbon footprint and promoting environmentally responsible agricultural practices. Salmeen Alameri, CEO of Silal said, "Our partnership with Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group aims to revolutionize the UAE's Agritech sector. By combining SVG's world-leading expertise in greenhouse technology with Silal's commitment to innovation and sustainability, we are creating a cutting-edge model for innovative agriculture that can be replicated across the region and beyond." Mr. Ming Yang, Founder of Shouguang Vegetable Industry Group, said: "Abu Dhabi's forward-thinking approach and its willingness to embrace new technologies make it a vital hub for Agritech innovation. In addition, the region's unique climate conditions make it a crucial testing ground for new technologies and solutions. Therefore, our partnership with Silal provides an unparalleled opportunity to refine our advanced technologies." The facility will integrate AI and robotics to optimize every stage of cultivation, enabling precision planting, accelerated harvesting, and greater operational efficiency. Integrated technologies include intelligent climate control, automated irrigation, robotic harvesting, and advanced AI-driven research and development. Over a dozen crop varieties – including tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, and strawberries—will be cultivated with enhanced traits for superior taste, resilience, and productivity. Smart resource management will reduce water and fertilizer usage by up to 30%, promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. The project will be supported by AI labs, technology testing zones, and a sensory experience center, alongside advanced water treatment systems, modular purification units, mushroom production areas, energy storage solutions, and dedicated employee accommodations. Complementing production, a fully equipped post-harvest complex will include cold storage, automated sorting lines, and export-ready logistics to maintain product integrity and ensure seamless distribution to domestic and international markets. About Silal Silal is part of ADQ, one of the region's largest holding companies with a broad portfolio of major enterprises spanning key sectors of Abu Dhabi's diversified economy. Silal was established in September 2020 to diversify sources of food products and stimulate manufactured and agri-food sectors. Silal's mandates include managing procurement programs and strategic stocks of foodstuffs. The company also executes specialised knowledge transfer programs on desert farming techniques and devises research and development projects. For more information, please visit: Follow Silal on: LinkedIn: Photo - - View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Silal Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
