Technological advancements in the agriculture sector, including solar-powered green houses, will be highlighted at Bahrain's largest and most colourful garden exhibition, a report said.

High-tech gadgets and innovative techniques will be at the forefront of the 10th Bahrain International Garden Show (BIGS) alongside dozens of prized products of at least 80 companies, according to the report in the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

Preparations are underway to host the show at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, from February 26 until March 1 next year.

It will be held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad with support from his wife and Supreme Council for Women president Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.

The event will showcase new equipment and tools to improve productivity, reduce costs and enhance environmental sustainability, said BIGS general co-ordinator Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa.

"This year we will be focusing on new technologies that are available now or which are just around the corner," she said yesterday during a Press conference at the Kempinski Grand and Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre.

"Agriculture is a dynamic and growing field that has seen many technological developments in recent years, and to highlight this to the public, we will be showcasing many of the latest garden, landscaping and agricultural technologies that are literally transforming the industry."

Companies from the US, France, Spain, Italy, the UK, Germany, Turkey, Egypt, Sudan, Syria, Iran, Thailand, Jordan, Lebanon, Yemen and Japan, in addition to all six Gulf states will be exhibiting at the event.

Shaikha Maram said several technologies including solar-powered green houses, hydroponic systems and solar-powered lawnmowers will be displayed.

"The show has been growing steadily over the years, with the total area occupied reaching a record 6,609 sq m last year," she said.

"This year, we expect exhibitor's spaces to top 7,000 sq m and attract more than 20,000 visitors.

"We are anticipating at least 90 exhibitors this year, plus around 30 international participants who will be part of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) stand."

Tamkeen has also joined as a partner and has urged Bahraini businesses to take part in the show through its Growth Assistance Scheme, which co-finances companies in local and regional trade exhibitions. – TradeArabia News Service