The Khazaen Central Market for Vegetables and Fruits, also known as Silal, is abuzz with anticipation as it prepares for its grand opening. Following a successful trial run on June 29, Silal is now set to commence full-scale commercial activities, representing a significant milestone for Oman's food supply chain.
Located in Khazaen Economic City, Silal serves as more than just a market; it is the core of the Food City in Khazaen. Covering a substantial area of 500 square meters and designed with future growth in mind, this state-of-the-art facility aims to transform the marketing, distribution, storage, import, and re-export of vegetables and fruits on both local and international levels.
Construction of Silal began in May 2022, and with over 98% of the project now finished, it stands as a prime example of meticulous planning and efficient implementation. With investments exceeding RO 50 million, the project's economic significance and the confidence it has instilled in stakeholders are evident.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources emphasized that one of Silal's primary objectives is to tackle the high spoilage rate of vegetables and fruits, currently standing at 30-35%. Through the provision of advanced storage and distribution facilities, Silal aims to significantly reduce this wastage, thereby enhancing food security and sustainability in Oman. The facility also offers various investment opportunities, particularly for SMEs, with provisions for ground handling, business centers, and sales kiosks.
Silal's vision extends beyond waste reduction to revolutionize the agricultural marketing landscape for local products, creating a robust platform for Omani farmers and local agricultural companies. The market provides a range of logistics services tailored to the food sector, including central refrigeration, wholesale market areas, dry storage, and specialized workshops for sorting vegetables and fruits.
Additionally, Silal boasts a wide array of facilities, such as customs inspection platforms, agricultural quarantine zones, a food safety laboratory, and designated areas for the sale and promotion of local products. The infrastructure includes administrative offices for wholesalers, ensuring seamless and efficient operations.
Silal is committed to aligning its objectives with the National Food Security Strategy and Oman Vision 2040. Through the attraction of local and international investments, Silal seeks to enhance the performance and quality of the fruit and vegetable sector in Oman. It pledges to provide integrated logistical solutions for central cold and dry storage, with the aim of reducing waste and improving the efficiency of cooling and supply chains.
Furthermore, Silal aims to create direct marketing opportunities for local products, in order to foster a more dynamic and sustainable agricultural sector. This initiative not only benefits Omani farmers but also offers a strong platform for local companies to thrive in the agricultural production industry.
