The Jazan region is one of the most prominent agricultural areas in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, boasting significant agricultural diversity across more than 197,000 hectares, which enhances investment opportunities in natural products. The region is famous for its local jasmine, known as local jasmine, which symbolizes beauty in Jazan.
Jasmine is used in the production of wreaths worn during social occasions, making it a primary source of income for many producing families, young entrepreneurs, and designers. In addition to jasmine, Jazan hosts a wide variety of aromatic plants such as bahran, shadhab, al-azzan jasmine, absinthe, and kadi, which are utilized for various purposes including decoration, perfume production, and traditional medicine.
Details of the New Initiatives
Majid Al-Buraik, the official spokesperson for the Sustainable Agricultural Development Program Riyadh Saudi, stated that the establishment of several cities for aromatic plants and jasmine is part of efforts to develop the flower and aromatic plant sector. These initiatives aim to enhance production efficiency, improve agricultural practices, promote sustainability in the sector, and expand value chains.
These projects include areas such as Ahd Al-Masarihah, which covers approximately 65,000 hectares and contains over 26,000 trees, with an annual production exceeding 156,000 kilograms. Additionally, nurseries for roses and aromatic plants will be established over 132,000 hectares, containing more than 52,800 trees, with a production capacity reaching 317,000 kilograms annually.
Background & Context
Historically, Jazan has been known for its agricultural diversity, but in recent years, the Saudi government has begun focusing on developing this sector as part of the 2030 Vision, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. Aromatic agriculture is considered one of the promising areas that can contribute to achieving these goals.
The Kingdom seeks to enhance local production by supporting farmers and providing training and technical assistance. There is also a growing interest in the green economy and natural products, making aromatic plants in Jazan a promising investment sector.
Impact & Consequences
These initiatives represent an important step towards improving the quality of life for small farmers, providing them with new income opportunities and contributing to the development of local communities. Additionally, the focus on aromatic agriculture enhances the Kingdom's competitiveness in global markets.
These projects also contribute to environmental sustainability by encouraging organic farming and developing supply chains and marketing, benefiting the local economy.
Regional Significance
The aromatic agriculture sector in Jazan is not only vital for local economic development but also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices that align with global environmental goals. The initiatives are expected to attract more investments and create job opportunities for the youth.
In conclusion, the efforts to enhance aromatic agriculture in Jazan are set to transform the region into a hub for natural products, benefiting both the economy and the environment.