Arab Region to Import 55% More Grain Over Next Decade Due to lack of Modern Agri Techniques

"The Arab nations are anticipated to rank second in terms of total food imports and become the largest net importers over the coming ten years. The cost of imports will go up as a result, leaving the Arab world more vulnerable to price swings on the world market, " Hanafi said this at a forum on February 23 in Beirut, Lebanon.

The forum, titled "Digital Transformation and Smart Agriculture Technology - Challenges and Opportunities," discusses the value of technology in advancing the agricultural sector globally and in the Arab world.

Hanafi emphasized the importance of utilizing contemporary methods and technology in smart agriculture by enhancing the private sector's role and encouraging it to undergo digital transformation in order to create sustainable agricultural practices, enhance rural development initiatives, and adopt sustainable solutions for the Arab region's future agriculture and food security.

In a changing climate, "certainly, this approach will help us effectively support the development and ensure food security," he continued. According to Hashim Hussein, Director of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization's Investment and Technology Promotion Office, the Arab region will import 63% of its calories by 2030, making it more vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and price fluctuations.

"In light of these challenges, it is necessary to collaborate in order to stimulate agricultural investment, develop traditional agricultural mechanisms, and train farmers to use modern technologies such as artificial intelligence and computer programmes," he added.

According to Lebanese Agriculture Minister Abbas Hajj Hassan, "there is an increasing need to teach farmers how to use modern agricultural technology, which can make farming easier, more affordable, and less costly. It also assists us in anticipating any crisis and thus reducing losses that affect the sector."