Saudi Arabia Advances Crop Protection Through Smart Digital Technologies

Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its agricultural sector by advancing plant and crop protection through modern digital technologies and smart systems aimed at supporting food security and preserving ecological balance amid growing climate challenges.

As the world marks the International Day of Plant Health, attention is increasingly focused on the Kingdom’s efforts to combat transboundary pests and plant diseases that threaten agricultural production and natural resources.

The National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases is leading these efforts through an integrated surveillance system that includes farm inspections, biosecurity measures at agricultural quarantine facilities, and specialized laboratories for the early detection and prevention of pest outbreaks.

The center is also developing regulatory frameworks and emergency response plans designed to accelerate interventions and minimize agricultural risks.

Mohammed Al-Khuraiji, head of the plant health sector at the center, explained that plant protection in Saudi Arabia has evolved from traditional pest control methods into a comprehensive biosecurity system powered by innovation and advanced digital tools.

He noted that the center aims to reduce the economic impact of plant pests by strengthening border inspections and expanding reference laboratories, emphasizing that plant health plays a direct role in public health, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.

Al-Khuraiji also called for stronger cooperation between farmers and specialized authorities to help build a more sustainable and resilient agricultural environment capable of addressing future challenges.