Qatar Agriculture - Industry - Market, Share and Trends 2023-2028

Summary of Agriculture

Qatar’s agriculture industry plays a vital role in the country’s efforts towards achieving food security and self-sufficiency. Situated in a desert environment with limited arable land and freshwater resources, Qatar faces significant challenges in agricultural production. However, the government has been proactive in promoting agricultural development through investments in technology, research, and infrastructure. The Qatar National Food Security Program (QNFSP) aims to enhance domestic food production, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure a sustainable food supply for the population. The country’s strategic vision includes leveraging advanced agricultural techniques such as hydroponics, vertical farming, and controlled environment agriculture to overcome environmental constraints and increase productivity. Additionally, Qatar’s emphasis on agro-technology and innovation has led to partnerships with international agricultural research institutions and the establishment of research centers to develop tailored solutions for local conditions. It currently accounts for over 0.10% of the worlds agricultural industry.

According to our estimates – we can say that the agricultural industry in Saudi Arabia is forecasted to be a $0.23 Billion industry in 2029 from $0.20 Billion in 2023 with a CAGR of 2.20%.

Recent Trends and Insights

In recent years, Qatar’s agriculture industry has witnessed several notable trends and developments. One significant trend is the adoption of soilless cultivation methods such as hydroponics and aeroponics to maximize resource efficiency and produce high-value crops in controlled environments. Vertical farming initiatives, including rooftop gardens and indoor farms, are gaining popularity in urban areas, addressing land scarcity and promoting local food production. Additionally, there’s growing interest in organic farming practices and sustainable agriculture techniques to minimize environmental impact and meet consumer demand for healthier food options.

Furthermore, Qatar’s agriculture sector is increasingly focused on diversifying crop production to include a wider range of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. While traditional crops like dates and fodder crops remain important, efforts are underway to introduce new varieties suited to local conditions and market demand. The government’s support for agricultural entrepreneurship and small-scale farming initiatives has encouraged innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector, leading to the emergence of niche markets for specialty crops and value-added products.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and global disruptions in food supply chains, Qatar has intensified efforts to strengthen its food security resilience through investments in local food production and distribution networks. The expansion of urban agriculture projects, community gardens, and agricultural education programs reflects a growing awareness of the importance of self-sufficiency and resilience in the face of external shocks.

Product Insights

Qatar’s agricultural product portfolio is diverse, reflecting efforts to adapt to the country’s arid climate and limited land availability. While traditional crops such as dates, fodder crops, and some cereals are cultivated in Qatar’s desert environment, the agriculture sector is increasingly focusing on high-value crops and specialty produce. Fruits such as dates, citrus fruits, pomegranates, and figs are well-suited to Qatar’s climate and soil conditions, with date palm cultivation being particularly significant due to its cultural and economic importance.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in greenhouse cultivation of vegetables and herbs using hydroponic and soilless techniques. This allows for year-round production of fresh produce and reduces the reliance on imported vegetables. Additionally, Qatar has been exploring opportunities for cultivating crops with higher water use efficiency and drought tolerance, including quinoa, chia seeds, and desert-adapted varieties of grains and pulses.

Livestock farming in Qatar primarily focuses on small ruminants such as sheep and goats, which are well adapted to the desert environment and provide a source of meat, milk, and fiber. Poultry farming is also prevalent, with local producers supplying eggs and poultry meat to meet domestic demand.

The government’s initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce reliance on food imports have led to increased investments in research and development, technology adoption, and capacity building in the agriculture sector. Value-added agriculture, including food processing and agro-industrial activities, is emerging as a potential growth area, offering opportunities for entrepreneurship and job creation in Qatar’s agriculture industry.

Key Companies

Some major players within this vast domain of industry are:

• Cargil Inc
• BASF SE
• Archer Daniels Midland Co
• Wilmar International Ltd
• Bunge Global SA
• Bayer AG
• CHS Inc
• Nutrien Ltd
• BayWa AG
• Associated British Foods Plc

Country Analysis

Qatar’s agriculture industry exhibits regional variations influenced by factors such as climate, soil conditions, and water availability. The majority of agricultural activity in Qatar is concentrated in the northern region, particularly around Doha and Al Khor, where fertile soils and access to groundwater support crop cultivation and livestock farming. The northern region benefits from proximity to urban centers and infrastructure, facilitating market access and distribution of agricultural products.

In contrast, the southern region of Qatar, including areas such as Al Wakrah and Mesaieed, faces greater challenges in agriculture due to limited water resources and harsh desert conditions. However, there are ongoing efforts to reclaim desert lands for agricultural purposes through innovative techniques such as desert greening and soil improvement.

Coastal areas along the Persian Gulf in eastern Qatar offer opportunities for aquaculture and fisheries development, although this sector remains underexploited. Efforts to harness the potential of marine resources and promote sustainable fishing practices are underway to enhance food security and economic diversification.

Qatar’s agriculture industry is also influenced by urbanization trends, with increasing demand for fresh produce and specialty crops driven by population growth and changing consumer preferences. Urban agriculture initiatives, including rooftop gardens, vertical farms, and community-supported agriculture programs, are emerging in urban centers like Doha, contributing to local food production and resilience.

Overall, Qatar’s agriculture industry is characterized by innovation, resilience, and a strategic vision for achieving food security and sustainability in the face of environmental challenges. The government’s commitment to investing in agricultural development, technology adoption, and research partnerships underscores Qatar’s efforts to build a resilient and self-sufficient food system for the future.

Market segmentation

By Type:

• Horticulture (Greenhouse Vegetables, Flowers, Plants)
• Dairy Farming
• Arable Crops (Potatoes, Onions, Cereals)
• Livestock Production (Poultry, Pork, Beef)
• Fisheries and Aquaculture

By End User:

• Domestic Consumers
• Export Markets
• Food Processing Industry

By Enterprise Size:

• Smallholder Farms
• Medium and Large-scale Enterprises
• Agribusiness Companies

Our Methodology

We have offered a well-founded review of Qatar’s agriculture market along with ongoing trends and upcoming projections to highlight proximate investment opportunities in this report. Moreover, an extensive analysis of any prospects, challenges, competitors, or navigating aspects is also provided. A methodical detailed regional examination is presented.

Primary Research  

Our multi-pronged research approach includes interviews with industry leaders and a global survey of advanced manufacturing professionals to gain qualitative insights. We utilize our proprietary databases encompassing key performance indicators worldwide in order to collate relevant data points. A multivariate forecasting framework considering historical performance, current dynamics and qualitative factors are utilized to develop market sizing and growth projections through 2029.

We supplement our primary research with a careful examination of secondary materials such as– case studies, news stories and references from other sources. Organizations can benefit from the strategic advice and conclusions offered because they will be better equipped to respond to the dynamic nature of this industry and seize emerging possibilities.

We employ a comprehensive and iterative research methodology focused on minimizing deviation to provide the most accurate market estimates. Our research utilizes a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches across segments and utilizes databases, primary research insights and industry experts for analysis.

Raw data is obtained from multiple sources and thoroughly filtered to ensure only authenticated and validated sources are considered. We collect data from raw material suppliers, industry associations, technology providers, and buyers to gain a holistic perspective.

Quantitative Analysis

Our market estimates are derived through statistical models, beginning with collection of historical data and analysis of macro- and micro-economic factors influencing the market. Gathered information on market dynamics, technology and pricing trends are utilised to build the models.

Econometric and technological models are applied to project short- and long-term market potential respectively. A bottom-up approach is preferred to minimize errors. Key parameters considered include market drivers and restraints, material pricing trends, regulatory scenarios, and capacity additions.

Weights are assigned to these parameters based on impact analysis and market forecasting is performed via statistical tools and techniques. We believe this methodology results in an accurate and realistic market picture.