RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has achieved self-sufficiency in fig production, with annual output exceeding 28,000 metric tons on 1,421 hectares of land across various regions, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) has announced. In a statement posted on its website, the ministry said Jazan and Riyadh regions are the biggest producers with an annual production of 9,906 metric tons and 8,010 MT, respectively. Asir is third with 3,970 MT; Makkah region is next with 1,635 MT; Hail, 1,033 MT, Al-Jouf production, 874 MT; Al-Baha, 790 MT, Qassim, 737 MT; Najran, 645 MT; Tabuk, 348 MT; Madinah, 245 MT; and the Northern Borders, 36 MT. Fig production season starts from February to November of each year, with the Madani, Turkish, Waziri, Kadota, and White King  among the popular varieties in addition to local ones. Figs are known to have multiple health benefits, like helping prevent Alzheimers disease, regulate blood pressure, and strengthen bones, and improve hair and skin health, according to the MEWA statement. The ministry is working to develop the production, processing and marketing of figs through the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program by exploiting and investing in the opportunities and resources available, and taking advantage of the natural resources and agricultural potential of different regions. The fig harvest season campaign aims to raise awareness about the Kingdoms diverse fruit options and to support farmers by improving marketing and distribution. Among the latest to join the fig production initiative was local farmer Bassam Al-Haboub, who has planted 1,200 fig trees in two years. Focusing on having high-quality soil and water, he cultivates a fig variety known for its abundant yield, firmness, and transportability, he said. A graduate in agriculture, Al-Haboub has leveraged his expertise to market his produce locally. He thanked the MEWA for organizing festivals that provide a platform for farmers to display their products and access valuable support services.  (With SPA)