Modern farming methods that can help the GCC countries address spiraling food costs were the highlight of the AGRAme exhibition which concluded in Dubai recently. Experts participating in the region's largest agribusiness trade show pointed towards technology as the key to a sustainable future. Almighty Fodder, an Australian company had a particularly successful event. “We have already concluded a joint venture arrangement with a high profile company in Jordan, as well as a number of orders from companies in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Morocco,” said partner Kevin Murphy. Almighty Fodder Super Cell, developed in Australia, can produce low cost, lush and nutritious fresh fodder for over 100 cattle or other grazing animals such as camels every day after only nine days. Concurring, Mike Cody, VP of US-based DPI Global, an innovative manufacturer and recognized authority of waste and odor control products, expanded on the macro implications of the current agricultural issues. “AGRAme has brought the benefits of new technology to the attention of the region. As the world gets smaller, it is imperative that the industry works together to improve not only crop efficiency but the environment for livestock, poultry and aquaculture. Given the region's import bills, investing in and sharing new ideas becomes even more valuable for producers and consumers alike,” he commented. The GCC is in the grip of cost and security concerns over their $10 billion dependency on food imports. World prices of many basic goods including rice, wheat, dairy and cooking oil are rising dramatically in a combination of crop shortages and rising global demand. Limited trade restrictions, high per capita incomes and growing demand because of ever increasing population in the region is also adding to the potential for agribusiness in the region. Modern technologies, equipment and expertise showcased at AGRAme were considered crucial in helping the region develop its agriculture sector and overcome climate, limited water resources and poor soil conditions. “The Middle East similar to many other parts of the world, is witnessing significant agricultural development. However the harsh climate and lack of water means that 90 percent of food and feed requirements are imported. Advanced technology using minimal natural resources such as water will be the key to reducing food prices that are expected to increase by as much as 40 percent this year,” said Jim Meltz, show director for AGRA Middle East. AGRAme, four closely linked exhibitions under one roof showcased the latest advances to improve agriculture and irrigation; animal husbandry and poultry farming; floriculture and horticulture; plus fisheries and aquaculture. The event featured over 100 exhibitors from more than 25 different countries, a 60 percent year-on-year increase, with over 3,000 visitors representing 55 different countries. AGRAme takes place at the Dubai International Exhibition Center on March 30 to April 1, 2009. Meanwhile, farms in Western Cape could be among the first targets of Saudi Arabian businessmen seeking investment opportunities in the province, Premier Ebrahim Rasool said last week. Rasool said a delegation of government officials and businessmen to the Middle East had been asked specifically what farms were for sale in the region. Cobus Dowry, Western Cape agriculture MEC, had presented a list of 14 such farms, one with a reserve price of R60 million. Rasool said the potential investors' aim was that if they were to buy farms they would be able to grow food, partly solving SA's problems and the Saudis' food problems. __
