DOHA: Some 46 types of locally-grown farm fresh vegetables are available at low prices at the three farmers’ markets that opened early last month.
Called vegetable yards, the seasonal farmers’ markets in Umm Salal, Al Khor-Al Dhakhira and Al Wakrah are attracting a lot of buyers.
The markets open in winter and usually continue until May.
This year, at least 72 local farms are taking part in the three markets.
Five more will be joining in soon.
Demand for the fresh produce remains high as the prices remain low.
The markets are open three days a week — Thursdays through Saturdays.
According to the Ministry of Environment, 321 tonnes of fresh vegetables and 215 tonnes of fresh fruits were sold at the three markets last month.
Of this, Al Mazrooa in Umm Salal, being a larger market, accounted for 130 tonnes.
As for fruits, the market had a share of 73 tonnes out of total sales of 215 tonnes at all the three markets in November.
The ministry’s Agricultural Affairs Department which supervises these markets and with the aim of encouraging local growers.
The growers cut out the middle-men and sell their farm fresh produce directly to customers.
This is the fourth year Al Mazrooa is in operation. The other markets were started later.
The market for Al Khor and Al Dhakhira is one as the two towns are closer and share one municipality.
Al Wakrah has emerged to be the second largest seasonal vegetable market.
Al Mazrooa also sells chicken and other birds as well as cattle like sheep and goats. It also has an abattoir.
The Peninsula
