Al-Jouf: A successful blending of regional and international fruit production
RIYADH: According to a recent Saudi Press Agency story, farmers in the Al-Jouf region gather fruits from more than two million trees each year, enhancing the area's standing as the Kingdom's "fruit basket." Al-Jouf fruits are "renowned for their exceptional quality and taste," according to the SPA. Based on data from the National Centre for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases, the area, which is renowned for its rich soil, is home to 816,000 palm trees and over 1.3 million fruit trees. Each year, the farms produce more than 170,000 tonnes of fruit, which is marketed in domestic and foreign markets. According to the SPA report, "this supply contributes to the food security of the Kingdom, supports farmers and producers, and offers consumers high-quality natural products." Fruit is harvested all year round, with a peak occurring in May and December. Thanks to the ideal climate and fresh water available in the Tabarjal Govern