Key Takeaways
- Strategic Partnership Agreements: Topian announces three significant partnerships at the Saudi International Marine Exhibition & Conference (SIMEC) to enhance Saudi Arabia‘s aquaculture sector.
- Focus on Sustainability and Technology: Collaborations aim to promote sustainable aquaculture practices, technological innovation, and the development of a national seafood market.
- Introduction of RAS Technology: An agreement with Pure Salmon introduces Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) technology in NEOM, targeting the high demand for salmon with local, high-quality production.
- Enhancement of Local Aquaculture: Partnership with the National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA) seeks to improve aquaculture practices and expand market reach for local seafood products.
- Alignment with National and Global Goals: These initiatives support Saudi Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on food security and environmental sustainability.
Introduction
During the first day of the Saudi International Marine Exhibition & Conference (SIMEC) held in Riyadh, Topian, a NEOM Food Company committed to future-proofing food systems, unveiled three strategic partnership agreements. These partnerships are designed to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global leadership in sustainable aquaculture, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and sustainable development objectives.
Strategic Partnerships for Sustainable Aquaculture
Collaboration with NLFDP
Topian’s key agreement with The National Livestock and Fisheries Development Program (NLFDP) emphasizes research, sustainable practices in the Red Sea, and the creation of a national seafood market. Dr. Ali Al-Shaikhi, CEO of NLFDP, stated, “This agreement aims to advance the livestock and fisheries sector across four crucial domains, including research, technological development, and innovation to foster sustainable aquaculture sector growth.”
Partnership with Pure Salmon
The Memorandum of Understanding with Pure Salmon, a leader in land-based aquaculture, signifies the establishment of a salmon production facility in NEOM. This facility will leverage Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) technology. Stephane Farouze, Chairman and Founder of Pure Salmon, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to announce Pure Salmon’s strategic collaboration with Topian… to reshape the future of the aquaculture industry, in alignment with the Saudi Vision 2030.”
Agreement with NAQUA
The agreement with the National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA) aims to further develop the local aquaculture sector and commercialize NAQUA’s seafood products. Diego Illingworth, CEO of NAQUA, highlighted the mutual benefits: “This MoU represents a collaborative effort to explore new opportunities in aquaculture… We are optimistic about the potential of this collaboration to contribute positively to the aquaculture sector in KSA.”
Enhancing Food Security and Sustainability
Topian’s recent initiatives, including joining the Saudi Agrifood Tech Alliance, underscore a strategic approach to enhancing food security, sustainability, and self-sufficiency in seafood production. These efforts aim to reduce the carbon footprint associated with fish imports and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on Life Below Water and Climate Action.
