Al-Qassim Governor reviews growth in date palm sector

Prince Faisal bin Mishal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, the Governor of Al-Qassim, reviewed the significant growth and development of the region's palm and date sector. Al-Qassim has established itself as a leading producer in Saudi Arabia, boasting more than 11 million palm trees.

During a meeting in Buraydah, the Governor highlighted the evolution of the Buraydah International Dates Carnival from a local market to an international event. He called on businessmen and investors to expand into specialized manufacturing industries related to dates to create value-added products and enhance economic returns and global competitiveness.

According to Salman Al-Suwaie, Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Al-Qassim, the region hosts over 14,000 agricultural holdings and contributes approximately 30% of the national date production. The region produces more than 100 varieties, including Sukkari, Sagai, Barhi, and Medjool. Additionally, efforts to combat the red palm weevil have successfully reduced infection rates to less than 1%.