Taif: The Rose and Aromatic Plants Global Forum in Taif Governorate continues to strengthen the Kingdom's position as a global hub in the aromatics sector, bringing together 400 participants from 44 countries.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the forum witnessed a turnout of 1,990 visitors, reflecting growing interest in investing in the rose and aromatic plant sector. Participation from East Asian and African countries was particularly prominent, led by the Philippines with 84 participants, followed by Indonesia with 32, Benin with 28, and Thailand with 22. The forum also saw strong participation from Arab countries, including Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, and Egypt.
Its workshops drew nearly 1,000 participants and featured 20 experts and speakers from the Kingdom, China, and Egypt. These sessions highlighted cutting-edge advances in plant breeding through tissue culture, as well as modern extraction techniques to enhance essential oil quality while reducing production losses.
The forum emphasizes strengthening the value chain for Taif roses and aromatic plants by supporting farmers, adopting advanced practices, and improving product quality to boost global competitiveness and diversify the Kingdom's non-oil economy.