The role of agriculture and food processing in the economy of Lebanon

In cooperation with the Embassy of Netherlands, the Chamber of Trade, Industry and Agriculture for Beirut and Mount Lebanon organized yesterday a seminar on the latest innovations in food processing and agricultural sectors in the presence of the Dutch Ambassador. Also present were the head of the Agricultural Committee at the Federation of Chambers, Rafleh Debbaneh and owners of various national companies active in the field. Debbaneh pointed out that “agriculture in Lebanon can only survive through innovation, particularly through technical advancement that improves the quality of production, widen the range of products and reduces cost while maintaining quality,” as he said. For her part, Ambassador Hester Somsen stressed that her consulate seeks to facilitate the exchange of scientific and technological expertise in the field of agricultural food industries which in turn will result in boosting production. Innovative approaches, she added, can assist in the expansion of export outlets to the EU countries and in diversifying the client and partner base, especially following the closure of land borders with Syria. “Lebanon needs to adapt to the new emerging situation in order to protect the agricultural sector which represents nearly 5% of GDP, employs 6%, of the working force, notably in those areas most affected by the war in Syria, and accounts for around 19% of  total Lebanese exports,” Somsen added.

An Nahar, Al Diyar, As Safir, November 25, 2015