Dialogue with Private Sector: "Engaging the Private Sector in Accelerating Agrifood Systems Transformation in the Near East and North Africa”

The role of the private sector is pivotal in driving the transformation of agrifood systems, particularly in regions like NENA. Private enterprises, ranging from small businesses to large firms, play a crucial role in introducing innovation, technology, and efficient practices throughout the entire agrifood value chain fostering the creation of value-added products. By leveraging their resources, expertise, and market driven approaches, the private sector can contribute significantly to increasing productivity, enhancing the resilience of farming communities, and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.

In the preparations for the Ministerial Session of NERC37, FAO is facilitating the organization of an interactive dialogue with the private sector on “Engaging the Private Sector in Accelerating Agrifood Systems Transformation in the Near East and North Africa (NENA)” which represents a unique opportunity to collaborate, share insights, and collectively shape the future of agrifood systems in the region.

This dialogue is co-organized in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) and the Group Business Forum – THIQAH.

This engaging session aims to bring together diverse stakeholders from small, medium, and large enterprises, regional organizations supporting private sector such as the Union of Arab chambers, the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, as well as regional financial institutions such as AGFUND, IFAD, IFC, ICD, to discuss and strategize collaborative efforts that will drive sustainable progress and accelerate the achievement of the SDGs within the region.