Qatar’s agriculture sector has shown significant growth in recent years, playing a crucial role in the country’s food security and self-sufficiency. According to research firm Mordor Intelligence, the agriculture market in Qatar is estimated to be worth $170.95 million in 2024 and is expected to reach $223.10 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 5.47 percent during the forecast period. Qatar is set to unveil the National Food Security Strategy 2024-30 following the successful completion of the 2018-2023 strategy, focusing on sustainability, modern technologies, and innovation.
The growth in Qatar’s agriculture sector has been particularly notable in the vegetable sections, with local vegetable production volume nearly doubling in the past five years. Additionally, the cultivated area has increased, leading to self-sufficiency in the dairy sector and robust growth in the livestock, poultry, and fishery sectors. Despite relying heavily on imports for cereals, Qatar is working towards self-sufficiency in agricultural products by encouraging farmers to adopt advanced farming techniques, with a strong focus on the vegetable segment.
The research report highlighted the increasing adoption of technology in farming practices in Qatar, with a particular emphasis on sustainable and smart agriculture techniques. These include hydroponics, smart irrigation, and aquaponics, which have enhanced the utilization of arable land and improved the quality of fruits and vegetables. Hydroponics, a popular system used in vertical farming, has gained traction among Qatari farmers for growing local fruits and vegetables using minimal water resources.
Overall, the agricultural sector in Qatar is poised for continued growth in the coming years, contributing to the country’s food security and self-sufficiency goals. With the implementation of the National Food Security Strategy 2024-30, Qatar aims to achieve sustainability, rely on modern technologies, and innovate in the agricultural sector to support the Qatar National Vision 2030 and strengthen its foundations. By focusing on diversification, limiting food losses, building reserves, and efficiently cultivating crops, meat, and fish within the country’s resource base, Qatar is on track to further enhance its agricultural productivity and output.