Nongshim, a leading South Korean food and beverage company, has announced plans to construct and operate a ‘K-Smart Farm’ in Saudi Arabia. This initiative is part of the Smart Farm Export Promotion Project, sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and organized by the Rural Development Administration. The project aims to establish a Korean-style smart farm model in the Middle East, showcasing advanced agricultural technologies and promoting sustainable farming practices.
Nongshim’s ‘K-Smart Farm’ will be built on a 4,000 square meter site in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. The farm will feature a combination of vertical farming and glass greenhouse models, designed to cater to the unique climatic conditions of the Middle East. This innovative approach will enable the cultivation of a variety of crops, including leafy vegetables like Frill Ice and kale, as well as fruit vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
The vertical farming system will allow for efficient use of space and resources, while the glass greenhouse will provide optimal growing conditions for high-value crops. This combination is expected to enhance productivity and sustainability, making it a model for future smart farming projects in the region. Nongshim’s expertise in food production and distribution will play a crucial role in the success of this venture, ensuring that the farm’s produce meets the highest standards of quality and safety.
In addition to its innovative farming techniques, the ‘K-Smart Farm’ will also incorporate advanced technologies such as AI-powered management systems and smart irrigation. These technologies will enable precise monitoring and control of the farm’s operations, optimizing resource use and minimizing environmental impact. By leveraging these cutting-edge solutions, Nongshim aims to set a new benchmark for smart farming in the Middle East.
Strategic Partnerships and Technological Integration
The success of the ‘K-Smart Farm’ project will be driven by strategic partnerships with key players in the agricultural and technology sectors. Nongshim has formed a consortium with three small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to bring this project to fruition. These partners include SFarm, which will manage greenhouse operations and crop cultivation technology transfer; iCrops, responsible for smart farm management AI robots; and POMIT, which will provide smart farm plant information technology.
This collaborative approach will ensure that the ‘K-Smart Farm’ benefits from a diverse range of expertise and resources. Each partner will contribute their specialized knowledge and skills, creating a synergistic effect that enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the project. The integration of advanced technologies and innovative farming practices will position the ‘K-Smart Farm’ as a leader in sustainable agriculture.
Nongshim’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by its focus on producing crops that are well-suited to the tastes and preferences of the Middle Eastern market. The farm will prioritize varieties of leafy vegetables with less bitterness and fruit vegetables with a strong sweet taste, catering to local consumer demands. This market-oriented approach will help ensure the commercial success of the farm’s produce, creating new opportunities for growth and expansion.
Future Prospects and Global Impact
The establishment of the ‘K-Smart Farm’ in Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone in Nongshim’s efforts to promote Korean agricultural technology on the global stage. By demonstrating the viability and benefits of smart farming in the Middle East, Nongshim aims to pave the way for further adoption of these technologies in other regions. The success of this project could serve as a catalyst for the expansion of smart farming practices worldwide, contributing to global food security and sustainability.
Nongshim’s long-term vision includes expanding its smart farm operations to other countries in the Middle East and beyond. The company has already made inroads in the region, having exported a container-type smart farm to Oman in November 2022 and signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Saudi Arabia and Qatar. These initiatives reflect Nongshim’s strategic commitment to leveraging its technological expertise to address global agricultural challenges.
The ‘K-Smart Farm’ project also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil by promoting sustainable development and innovation. By contributing to this national agenda, Nongshim is not only enhancing its own business prospects but also supporting the broader goals of economic and environmental sustainability in the region.
