Qatar targets 55% self-sufficiency in vegetable production by 2030

QATAR – Qatar has set an ambitious goal of achieving 55 percent self-sufficiency in vegetable production by 2030.

The National Food Security Strategy 2030, launched by the Ministry of Municipality, outlines measures to boost local agricultural productivity and ensure a stable food supply.

The strategy aims to increase agricultural land productivity by 50 percent to meet the growing demand for fresh produce.

In addition to vegetables, Qatar has set targets to produce 30 percent of its red meat and 80 percent of its fish locally. The country also seeks to achieve complete self-sufficiency in dairy and fresh chicken production.

Recent years have seen steady progress in fresh food production. Qatar currently has over 950 productive farms, and the land used for organic farming doubled last year. These developments highlight the country’s commitment to strengthening its food security.

Mahaseel Company for Marketing and Agricultural Services played a key role in supporting local farmers by marketing over 26 million kilograms of vegetables in 2024.

Meanwhile, the livestock population, including sheep, goats, camels, and cows, has reached 1.4 million, ensuring a steady supply of meat and dairy products.

The Agricultural Affairs Department at the Ministry of Municipality continues to support local farms by providing technical assistance and resources to enhance productivity and maintain high-quality standards.

Long-term strategy for food security

Qatar has prioritized food security as a critical component of economic development. The previous National Food Security Strategy (2018-2023) made significant contributions to strengthening the country’s food system.

The strategy focused on increasing local agricultural production, diversifying trade sources to reduce risks, and maintaining a strategic food reserve.

As part of its long-term food security approach, the government has launched programs to ensure that food remains available at reasonable prices while addressing climate change challenges. These efforts have contributed to a noticeable increase in cultivated land and overall agricultural output.

The Ministry of Municipality stated, “The great achievements that have been made over the past few years, including the significant growth in cultivated areas, quantity, and production, in addition to the initiatives launched by the state to support all sectors of food security, including, but not limited to, the marketing programs.”

To achieve its self-sufficiency goals, Qatar has encouraged farmers to use advanced farming techniques. Greenhouses and hydroponic systems have been widely adopted to maximize production while conserving water.

The government has distributed 5,777 greenhouses—both normal, cooled and hydroponic—to farm owners as part of its commitment to supporting agricultural sustainability.

The National Food Security Strategy 2030 aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to build a resilient food system capable of adapting to global challenges such as climate change and geopolitical uncertainties.

The strategy consists of 17 initiatives focused on sustainability, food safety, and fostering effective partnerships to strengthen the agricultural sector.

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