Two million animals ready for slaughter

JEDDAH: Over two million animals would be available for slaughter this Haj season, according to the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI). Suleiman Al-Jabri, chairman of the JCCI’s livestock traders committee, said that more than 1 million sheep, goats and cows would be provided to markets in Makkah and the Islamic Development Bank for its projects. There would also be a million animals available for citizens and residents, he said. He said the committee has over the past two months received more than 50 trucks with live cattle from neighboring countries including Sudan and Somalia. The shipments include sheep and cattle for local markets, which would help keep prices low, he said. Al-Jabri said the committee is ensuring that shipments arrive on time so that prices are kept stable. There is also an emphasis on quality animals for consumers, he said. He thanked Abdul Rahman Al-Fadli, the agriculture minister, for helping to resolve obstacles and difficulties faced by importers and investors. The committee had at a recent meeting with the ministry sought to ensure that there are permits granted to livestock traders to enter Makkah. Meanwhile, Sahaim bin Saeed Al-Ghamdi, chairman of the vegetable and fruit committee, said members discussed preparations to overcome challenges related to prices increase, the phenomenon of street vendors, and health and environmental problems faced by workers in the sector. They plan to discuss the localization of jobs in the fruit and vegetable trade at the central market in Jeddah.The strategic plan of the committee over the next three years is to revamp the market, curb irregularities, and deal with environmental and health problems. -arabnews