Over 315 exhibitors from more than 33 countries are in Riyadh to take part in "Saudi Agriculture 2011 – The 30th International Agriculture, Water and Agro-Industry Show," which opens on Monday.

A premier business-to-business agriculture and agro-food event in the region, "Saudi Agriculture 2011" will reveal opportunities within the thriving $5.6 billion Saudi food and beverages market for the next four days at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre.

The trade show will see exhibitors view and discuss key technologies and best practices for the Saudi, regional and global markets.

To be held under the patronage of Dr. Fahid Balghunaim, Saudi Minister of Agriculture, Saudi Agriculture 2011 will feature the latest in animal health and production, agricultural finance and banking, agricultural products and services, chemicals and fertilizers, cold storage and crop production, and dairy farming products and equipment, among many others.

Regional and international agriculture industry players and leaders will interact with high-ranking agriculture officials to identify and explore business and investment prospects in the Kingdom and across the Middle East.

Saudi Agriculture 2011 is accredited by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, said event organisers Riyadh Exhibitions Company.

“We are all set to start what we expect to be a highly successful edition in just a few more days," said Mohamad Al Hussaini, deputy general manager, Riyadh Exhibitions Company.

The strong response, he said, in terms of exhibitor confirmation, government support and public interest reflects how Saudi Agriculture is still viewed as the region’s top agriculture event after 30 years.

"We have added special segments such as organic foods to complement industry expansions and provide more options to investors and businesses interested or currently operating in the Saudi market," he added.

Also running concurrently with Saudi Agriculture 2011 is Saudi Agro-Food 2011 - The 18th International Trade Show for Food Products.

Saudi Agro-Food 2011 will showcase products, technologies and services in areas ranging from frozen and chilled foods, confectionery, chocolates, health and natural foods, to presentation, processing and packaging equipment.-TradeArabia News Service