Sudan's Minister of Animal Resources, Ahmed Tijani Al-Mansouri, emphasized in an interview with Al Jazeera Net that Sudan has a historic opportunity to turn its challenges into strategic gains, particularly in light of regional developments stemming from the Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Al-Mansouri pointed out that Sudan's vast natural resources and unique geographical location enable it to play a pivotal role in the food security system, not only at the Arab level but also globally.
Details of the Situation
The minister explained that Sudan has already begun practical steps to enhance its readiness, including the establishment of livestock production cities across various states, as well as launching a direct digital application to facilitate investors' access to investment opportunities quickly and transparently. These measures reflect the government's seriousness in creating an attractive and secure investment environment.
Al-Mansouri confirmed that the Gulf Cooperation Council countries import foodstuffs worth up to 100 billion dollars annually, relying approximately 90% on imports from distant countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and North and South America, including Brazil. With the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, transportation costs have significantly increased, while Sudan enjoys the advantage of geographical proximity, with the distance from Port Sudan to Jeddah taking only 10 to 16 hours by sea.
Background & Context
Before the outbreak of the war, the Sudanese government formed a high committee to attract investors from Gulf countries, but it has not yet been activated. Al-Mansouri urged the Cabinet to expedite seizing this opportunity, noting that opportunities do not knock twice and must be exploited in a timely manner.
He also pointed out that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz deprives many countries of their traditional outlets, leading to a significant increase in transportation costs, while Sudan's strategic location qualifies it to be an important alternative at this stage.
Impact & Consequences
This opportunity requires swift and practical action from the state by activating the role of the high committee, facilitating procedures for investors, and developing transportation and storage infrastructure, alongside improving the quality of local production to meet global standards. If achieved, Sudan will be able to transform challenges into strategic gains that enhance its economic position.
Al-Mansouri anticipated a significant influx towards Sudan in the coming period, especially with the changes brought about by the crisis in global supply routes. Sudan has already begun receiving requests from various countries such as Japan, Indonesia, Algeria, and Saudi Arabia, primarily focused on the meat sector, whether slaughtered or live.
Regional Significance
This diversity in requests reflects that Sudan has become a focal point for different markets, confirming that its geographical position and natural resources provide it with a unique competitive advantage. Sudan possesses vast agricultural and food resources sufficient not only to cover the needs of the Arab world but also to extend to meet a significant portion of global needs.
Despite the challenges facing Sudan, there are safe and stable states that could provide an ideal environment for attracting investors and effectively utilizing available resources. Thus, Sudan is capable of bridging a significant part of the regional and international food gap if its resources are utilized in a balanced manner.
Sudan's future plans are clear, as it has begun establishing a city for livestock production aimed at benefiting from the economic characteristics and resources available in Sudanese states. It is also working to halt the export of live cattle, believing that exporting slaughtered and processed meat yields greater economic benefits.
Al-Mansouri's message to international investors and partners was clear, emphasizing Sudan's welcoming stance towards investors and providing a safe and transparent environment to achieve mutual benefits. He confirmed that Sudan is ready for investment and is working on preparing infrastructure and simplifying procedures, opening doors to new opportunities.
In conclusion, Al-Mansouri affirmed that Sudan's doors will remain open to all, and that partnership and cooperation are the path to achieving food security and shared development, benefiting both Sudan and its global partners.