Silal, the Central Fruit and Vegetable Market in Muscat, has made significant strides in reducing the loss rate of fruits and vegetables to less than 5%, a vast improvement from the 35% loss rate experienced at the previous Mawaleh Market. This achievement can be attributed to the state-of-the-art facilities at Silal, including an air-conditioned exhibition hall that provides a controlled environment for agricultural products. In contrast, Mawaleh Market displayed products in an open hall exposed to harsh weather conditions, leading to rapid spoilage and higher loss rates. Silal’s integrated facilities, such as refrigerated warehouses and air-conditioned display areas, have played a crucial role in maintaining product quality and reducing losses.
The wholesale hall at Silal spans 30,000 square meters and includes 90 refrigerated warehouses, each measuring 126 square meters. Plans are underway to expand cooling and storage areas by an additional 21,000 square meters, increasing the market’s capacity to approximately 31,000 tons. This expansion aligns with the growing demand from traders and local and international companies operating within the market. Located in the Food City at Khazaen Economic City in Barka, South Al Batinah Governorate, Silal benefits from its strategic position along the Al Batinah Expressway, allowing for efficient movement of goods to and from the market and prompt delivery to various local markets.
Silal serves as a wholesale hub for receiving and redistributing vegetables and fruits across Oman. Equipped with facilities that meet stringent quality requirements, the market features a one-stop inspection station providing integrated services while adhering to health standards. The reduction in the loss rate at Silal highlights the market’s role in advancing Oman’s wholesale sector for fruits and vegetables. Managing Director Ali bin Muslim Al-Muqbali expressed optimism about achieving even more positive outcomes in storage, handling, and marketing of local products, meeting the aspirations of traders, consumers, and all stakeholders involved with Silal.
The success of Silal in reducing loss rates and providing high-quality produce to consumers underscores the importance of investing in modern facilities for the agricultural sector. By creating an ideal environment for displaying, sorting, and storing products, Silal has been able to handle large quantities of vegetables and fruits efficiently while maintaining their freshness. The market’s focus on quality and preservation has positioned it as a key player in Oman’s agricultural industry, attracting traders and companies seeking reliable and high-quality produce for their businesses.
As Silal continues to expand its cooling and storage facilities, it is poised to meet the increasing demand for fresh fruits and vegetables in Oman. The market’s strategic location near major transportation hubs like Muscat International Airport and various ports enables easy access for traders and ensures timely delivery of products to local markets. Silal’s commitment to upholding health standards and providing top-notch facilities for handling and storing produce sets a high standard for the wholesale sector in Oman, driving growth and innovation in the agricultural industry.
In conclusion, the Central Fruit and Vegetable Market, Silal, has made remarkable progress in reducing loss rates and improving the quality of produce available to consumers. With its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic location, Silal has become a leading wholesale hub for fruits and vegetables in Oman, catering to the needs of traders, consumers, and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. The market’s focus on efficiency, quality, and innovation sets it apart as a key player in advancing Oman’s agricultural industry, paving the way for continued growth and success in the future.
