The 2019 International Dates Exhibition will kick off on Wednesday with the participation of local and international companies and institutions specialising in dates and date products, in addition to a number of local farms, Hassad Company and other bodies in the country. The exhibition will continue until May 4.
Organised by the Agriculture and Fishery Affairs Department of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), in collaboration with Souq Waqif, the exhibition aims to promote the national product of dates, to identify its different types, to supply its various types, to attract visitors and tourists and to encourage the conservation and care of the palm tree, in addition to making this event as an annual event linked to the cultural heritage of Qatar.
The exhibition aims at introducing dates and date products, enhancing the cultural and heritage awareness associated with the palm tree and highlighting the importance of its dates in terms of food and culture, for which demand increases at this time of year before the holy month of Ramadan.
MME's Agricultural Affairs Department director Youssef Khalid al-Khulaifi said some 150 national and foreign exhibitors will take part in the exhibition, including 89 local companies and 59 foreign companies specialised in the production, supply and distribution of dates, from 10 countries.
He added that the exhibition is an opportunity to showcase all types of local and non-local dates and derivatives, which will positively affect their sales volume and enhance the ability to increase production. It is also an opportunity to establish strong ties and exchange of experiences between date producers and manufacturers from inside and outside Qatar.
He stressed that the organising committee of the exhibition has placed a set of conditions on dates and their derivatives to be showcased in the exhibition, including that it must be produced this year and in good condition and well packaged with packaging showing the production and validity dates.
Souq Waqif acting director Ali Shabib al-Mannai said that the Souq Waqif management has set up a large tent with about 148 pavilions to display various types of dates, both from local and international companies, in addition to ensuring all security and safety measures and facilities for the participants in the exhibition. (QNA)
