MP to propose law banning exports of wheat products subsidised by government

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by Mohammed Darwish

MP Mohammed Al Maarafi, former head of the parliamentary investigation committee on food security, has emphasised the vital role of Bahrain Flour Mills Company (BFM) in maintaining the nation’s food security.

In a statement, MP Al Maarafi announced his intention to propose a law banning the export of any products derived from government supported wheat.

This initiative aims to protect the Kingdom’s food supply and ensure the availability of these essential commodities for its citizens. Al Maarafi noted that Bahrain Flour Mills, a publicly traded company, receives full state support for its wheat purchases.

The wheat is stored in the company’s silos, creating a strategic reserve for the country. This reserve is fundamental to the food security products consumed by the population.

The residual bran (Shwar) from the wheat milling process serves to support livestock and poultry breeders, thereby contributing to the nation’s self-reliance in meat, poultry, dairy, and related products.

Employment opportunities

This policy not only strengthens food security but also creates employment opportunities for Bahraini citizens, who have long been engaged in these vocations.

Al Maarafi stressed the necessity of the state retaining full control over wheat and its by-products.

He advocated for the state to acquire the remaining shares in Bahrain Flour Mills to ensure the stability of the strategic wheat reserve and avert price volatility that could detrimentally affect the livelihoods of the citizenry.