(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The winter vegetable farmers' markets have seen more growth in the sale of birds, livestock and fish than fresh vegetables and fruits this season, figures released by the markets' organisers reflect.
The turnover of birds saw a growth of an incredible 317 percent at the three markets (Al Mazrooah, Al Khor and Al Dhakhira combined and Al Wakrah) in this season which ended on May 30. The season that begins in December when the weather is cold, normally ends with the onset of May when it is quite hot here. But this year the season was extended to May-end.
Livestock sales at the three markets witnessed 265 percent growth in demand while fish sales rose by 213 percent. Vegetable sales grew by only 82 percent and fruits, 55 percent. A total of 3,615 tonnes of fresh vegetables produced in the Qatari farms were sold in the season at all the three markets, while fruits totaled 1,488 tonnes. Fruits are largely imported.
Fish sold totalled 100 tonnes whereas more than 2,000 heads of livestock and some 17,000 birds were sold. Al Mazrooah remains the largest of the three farmers' markets followed by the one in Al Wakrah by sale volume.
In terms of the value of turnover in riyals, sales at the three markets this season totalled QR39m, more than double in 2014 (QR14m) and over six times since 2012-13 (when Al Mazrooah market was opened for the first time).
This was the third year when the farmers' markets were held. Al Wakrah market was inaugurated this season. Sales, particularly of fresh vegetables, have soared more than four times in the three years, while the demand for fruits has trebled in the period.
A press statement issued yesterday noted that 73 local farms took part in the three markets this season, up from 56 in the last season and 24 in 2012-13.
A highlight this season was that organic vegetables were also sold at Al Mazrooah market and they turned out to be quite a hit.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.