In a significant development for the agricultural sector, His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs, witnessed the signing of a groundbreaking joint venture (JV) agreement between Silal, a leading agri-food and technology company from Abu Dhabi, and Shouguang Colorful Manor Modern Agriculture Co., Ltd (SVG), a prominent agricultural technology firm in China. This pivotal moment took place during the China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025, marking a substantial step forward in the UAE-China partnership in sustainable agriculture.
The agreement is a testament to the UAE's commitment to strengthening food security, diversifying local production, and embracing advanced agri-tech solutions, especially in challenging climates. His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, emphasized the strategic nature of this partnership, stating, 'The UAE is fostering strategic alliances that bolster our national food security ecosystem while deepening economic ties with global partners like China. This joint venture exemplifies our shared dedication to innovation, sustainability, and responsible growth, benefiting both nations and contributing to the global food system's resilience.'
Under the terms of the agreement, Silal and SVG will collaborate to establish the region's first facility for agricultural biological insects and jointly develop cutting-edge greenhouse infrastructure to cater to the UAE and GCC markets. This partnership leverages Silal's deep market understanding and farmer network alongside SVG's technological prowess in AI-driven greenhouse systems, biological pollination, and precision farming. Both parties have also forged a long-term strategic alliance in fruit and vegetable trading, aiming to transport over 1,000 containers of selected products from China to the UAE and neighboring markets annually.
H.E. Dhafer Al Qasimi, Group CEO of Silal, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, 'This partnership is a substantial stride in Silal's mission to advance sustainable agriculture through scientific innovation. By combining SVG's technological expertise with Silal's profound understanding of the UAE's agricultural landscape, this joint venture will foster long-term resilience, efficiency, and competitiveness across the agri-food value chain. Beyond innovation, our goal is to empower local farmers with cost-effective agricultural inputs and the latest technologies, enabling them to boost productivity, reduce costs, and enhance resource efficiency in a rapidly evolving environment.'
This collaboration will lead to the localization of essential agricultural inputs, reducing import dependency, and enabling climate-smart, resource-efficient farming across the region. By integrating SVG's advanced manufacturing capabilities with Silal's operational leadership, the partnership will deliver scalable, cost-efficient solutions that enhance water efficiency, improve yields, and solidify the UAE's position as a regional hub for sustainable agriculture and innovation.
Mr. Ming Yang, Founder of SVG, expressed enthusiasm, stating, 'Our partnership with Silal presents an unparalleled opportunity to further enhance our advanced technologies and farming expertise under the region's unique climate conditions. Together, we will combine our strengths to make a significant contribution to building a sustainable, innovative, and resilient food security ecosystem in the UAE.'
As part of the joint venture, a substantial investment of USD 38 million will be directed towards constructing an AI- and robotics-powered vegetable production hub in Al Foah, Al Ain, on a 9.8-hectare plot. This facility will serve as a regional innovation hub, showcasing modern greenhouse technologies, water-efficient systems, and climate-smart agricultural models adaptable to Gulf environments.
The agreement builds upon the foundation of two major MoUs previously signed between Silal and SVG, signifying a deepening of technical and commercial collaboration. It will facilitate knowledge transfer, capacity building, and technology localization, empowering UAE farmers with solutions that reduce import dependence, enhance yield, and promote environmental stewardship.
[Photos: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2817009/Silal.jpg, https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2817010/Silal2.jpg, https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2817011/Silal3.jpg]
