Qatar's local farms are grappling with significant barriers to exporting their surplus vegetable production, primarily due to insufficient export infrastructure. Despite the Ministry Municipality's green light last year for exporting surplus local vegetables, the associated costs - encompassing preservation, packaging, storage, and customs fees - remain prohibitively high.
Farm owner Ali Noh highlighted the disparity between the low retail prices of local vegetables and the higher prices of imports, along with the unfavorable rates local farmers receive compared to retail outlets, adversely affecting farm productivity. Noh pointed out the frequent scenario where production costs surpass revenue, incurring losses. He advocated for protective measures for local produce, targeting exports to neighboring countries that are already importing their vegetables into Qatar. Yousef al-Tahir noted the complex approval process for exporting to these countries as a significant obstacle, suggesting a limitation on vegetable imports as an alternative strategy. Dr. Rashid al-Kuwari identified potential foreign markets, especially during winter, but lamented the lack of infrastructure and expertise for effective exportation.
Source: gulf-times.com