The twin Saudi agriculture exhibitions - Saudi Agriculture 2009 and Saudi Agro-Food 2009 - were a huge success attracting over 20,000 visitors and generating billions of rials worth of new projects and business deals, according to its organisers.

Riyadh Exhibitions Company said the twin expos concurrently held at the newly-completed Riyadh International Exhibition Centre witnessed four days of business-to-business networking activities and a showcase of the latest products, technologies and innovations from more than 500 local, regional and international exhibitors from over 30 countries.

Dr Fahd Bin Abulrahman Balghunaim, Saudi Minister of Agriculture, opened the trade event which had a premium selection of state-of-the-art technology, machinery, equipment and products in the agriculture and agro-food sectors on display.

The exhibitions occupied a total of 15,000 sq m of indoor exhibition space and up to 5,000 sq m of outdoor exhibition grounds, said Mohammed Al Hussaini, deputy general manager, Riyadh Exhibitions Company.

He noted that the volume of projects and deals that were closed during the mega trade event underlined the excellent potential for long-term growth in the areas of agriculture and agro-food business in Saudi Arabia.

'The enthusiastic attitude of both trade exhibitors and visitors reflects the favourable market conditions in the fields of agriculture and agro-food in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the excellent response reaffirms the status of Saudi Agriculture and Saudi Agro-Food as invaluable communication channels and business gateways for local and international industry players,' he added.

Al Hussaini pointed out that about 80 per cent of participants of both the exhibitions were Saudi-based companies.

'Saudi Agriculture 2009 – The 28th International Agriculture, Water and Agri-Industry Show' presented the latest in chemicals and fertilisers, agricultural finance and banking, nurseries and crop protection, pumps and pipe systems, irrigation and landscaping equipment, and water treatment and management systems.

'Saudi Agro-Food 2009 – The 16th International Trade Show for Food Products, Processing and Packaging Technologies' showcased the latest products, technologies and services in areas ranging from frozen and chilled foods, confectionery and chocolates and health and natural foods, to presentation, processing and packaging equipment.-TradeArabia News Service