Jazan on the scent of success with sandalwood

MAKKAH: Sandalwood farming is reaping sweet rewards for farmers in Jazan two years after its launch in Saudi Arabia.
The project was conducted in partnership with a research team comprising the Development and Reconstruction of Jazan Mountainous Regions Authority, Jazan University, King Abdulaziz University, and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.
Dhafer bin Ayed Al-Fahad, director general of the authority, told Arab News about the “successful and encouraging experience” with sandalwood trees.
A number of businessmen and businesswomen were invited to tour the region to see the region’s agricultural potential.
Al-Fahad highlighted the importance of the strategic partnerships between the authority and private sector to attract investment for cultivation projects, such as coffee, sandalwood and agarwood, that will help in creating job opportunities for locals and yield high returns.
Jazan farmers have also made great strides in expanding their production of tropical fruit for local and international markets.
Coffee production is another important economic sector in the region, and enjoys special care by the Kingdom’s leadership. It is part of the Jazan region’s heritage, and is a crucial source of income for the residents of the mountainous areas, which are the homeland of the Khawlani coffee beans.  With such initiatives, as part of Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s southwestern region has reintroduced itself as a key player on the country’s agricultural development map.