The Ministry of Agriculture holds the first meeting of the Higher Committee for the National Forum on “Investment Prospects in the Agricultural Sector in Palestine”, which is scheduled to be held at Palestine Technical University-Khadouri.

Ramallah: August 31, 2026

The Higher Committee for Monitoring and Evaluating the Reality and Prospects of Investment in the Agricultural Sector in Palestine held its first meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture headquarters, under the directives of His Excellency the Minister of Agriculture, Professor Rizq Slaimiya. This meeting was held in preparation for the "National Forum for Investment in the Agricultural Sector in Palestine," scheduled to take place at Palestine Technical University (Khadoorie) in partnership with the Union of Food and Agricultural Industries.

The meeting was opened by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Engineer Bader Al-Hawamdeh, who welcomed the attendees and emphasized the importance of holding the forum to develop the agricultural sector and enhance food and economic security. He also reviewed the efforts exerted by the Ministry in cooperation with its partners to develop the sector and provide the best services to farmers.

For his part, Engineer Mahmoud Fatafta, Director General of International Relations and General Coordinator of the Committee, presented a preparatory overview of the forum's objectives and themes, in addition to presenting a preliminary draft of the national paper on investment gaps in the agricultural sector and its proposed outcomes.

Furthermore, Mr. Tariq Abu Laban, a committee member and Assistant Undersecretary for the Economic Sector, presented on the current state of the agricultural sector from an economic perspective, addressing the relevant determinants, incentives, and development plans.

The meeting witnessed broad participation and contributions from committee members representing partner ministries and institutions, including the Ministries of Economy and Industry, Education, the Environmental Quality Authority, the Water Authority, the Standards Institution, the Innovation Center, and the Federation of Food and Agricultural Industries. Representatives from the academic sector also participated, including those from Hebron University, An-Najah National University, Palestine Technical University (Khadoorie), Al-Quds University, and Al-Quds Open University. Discussions focused on ways to overcome challenges and develop agricultural investment.

The committee concluded its meeting by agreeing to continue preparations and meetings by developing a database, a map of investment opportunities and value chains, and a guide to available incentives and facilities. This is all in preparation for holding the National Forum and establishing it as an annual platform aimed at developing and monitoring investment in the Palestinian agricultural sector.