The 2019 International Dates Exhibition concluded on Saturday, with the participation of international and local companies specialising in date products. Hassad Co was among the leading local firms that took part in the exhibition.
Organised by the Agriculture and Fishery Affairs Department of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), in collaboration with Souq Waqif, the exhibition aimed to promote date products, identify different types of dates, and supply them to markets, 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.
It also aimed at introducing dates and date products, enhancing the cultural and heritage awareness associated with the palm tree and highlighting the importance of dates in terms of food and culture, for which demand increases at this time of year before the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement, Mohammed al-Salem, director, Souq Waqif, said that 150 local and foreign companies specialised in the production, supply and distribution of dates participated in the exhibition. The participating foreign countries included Palestine, Jordan, Iran, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, Oman, Kuwait and Sudan, in addition to some representatives from Iraqi companies.
He added that the exhibition was 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 was also an opportunity to establish strong ties and exchange of experiences between date producers and manufacturers from inside and outside Qatar.
Meanwhile, the MME has honoured the sponsors and supporters of the exhibition. Sheikh Dr Faleh bin Nasser al-Thani, assistant undersecretary for Agriculture and Fisheries Affairs at the MME, thanked representatives of such entities and handed over certificates of appreciation in the presence of other dignitaries. Those honoured include the Souq Waqif management, QNB, Qatar Airways, General Authority of Customs, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels and Qatar Chamber.
