Aquaculture is a key driver of sustainable food production
Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi–KEZAD Group, has announced plans to develop a specilaised zone for aquaculture and related industries.
The zone is the result of growing demand within the industry for dedicated infrastructure and connectivity to serve the domestic and international markets from Abu Dhabi. KEZAD Group is a key partner in Abu Dhabi’s AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance (Agwa) Cluster, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office.
Agwa aims to provide a key platform to support local suppliers and exporters to maximise commercial opportunities, and ease pressure on agriculture systems, and by 2045, this cluster is expected to contribute AED 90bn in incremental gross domestic product to the Abu Dhabi economy, create more than 60,0000 new jobs and attract AED128bn in investments.
Key driver
Aquaculture is a key driver of sustainable food production as it alleviates pressure on wild fish resources. Currently, the UAE consumes approximately 220,000 tonnes of seafood annually, with 70 per cent of this demand being met through imports.
“Food security is a top priority for the UAE, and KEZAD Group. Our planned aquaculture zone will strengthen our country’s resilience, reduce reliance on imports, and create a sustainable model for food production in the region,” concluded Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group.
