Abu Dhabi unveils new economic cluster to boost food security

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Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has launched the AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance (AGWA) cluster, an economic cluster that is set to boost food and water security globally.

AGWA is set to become a global hub for novel food and ingredients, and technologies to advance access to and the utilisation of water resources.

The initiative, which is being led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and Abu Dhabi Investment Office, is expected to contribute Dhs90bn in incremental GDP to Abu Dhabi’s economy and attract Dhs128bn in investments by 2045.

The economic cluster is designed to support local suppliers and exporters alike, serving as a platform to maximise commercial opportunities. It seeks to increase global demand, alleviate pressures on agricultural systems, address shifting dietary patterns, capitalise on technological advancements, and support global food security to ensure a reliable and resilient supply chain.

Sheikh Khaled highlighted the crucial role of AGWA in enhancing the national food and water security system. By utilising innovative technologies and solutions, the cluster aims to promote sustainable local production while addressing the increasing global demand for food and water, said Sheikh Khaled.

AGWA will support pioneers in the food and water industry to leverage innovations in alternative proteins, algae and reverse osmosis technologies, and enhance traditional food and water production and supply.

The initiative taps into a Dhs77.4tn industry with significant potential for economic growth and job creation.

Abu Dhabi’s buoying economic ecosystem

AGWA represents the next phase of the emirate’s strategy to address global food and water insecurity by channelling investment and resources into future-focused economic clusters to address critical global challenges.

The initiative is the second economic cluster launched by Abu Dhabi to drive economic growth, diversification, job creation, and promote investment in future-focused industries.

Last October, the emirate unveiled the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries cluster to position the emirate at the forefront of future mobility solutions across air, land and sea applications.

AGWA is set to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s efforts to enhance the city’s pioneering role in harnessing advanced innovations and solutions in food and water production and developing traditional agricultural methods.

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