Amman, Jan. 12 (Petra) -- The Parliamentary Agriculture and Water Committee on Monday discussed measures to protect livestock, develop the ruminant sector, and enhance the sustainability of livestock production in the Kingdom, describing the sector as a key pillar of national food security.

According to a committee statement, MP Ahmad Shdeifat said supporting livestock breeders is essential in light of challenges facing the sector, including high feed costs, water scarcity, and the impacts of climate change. He stressed the need to develop national policies and programs that support sustainability and improve productivity.

Committee members MPs Iyad Jabreen, Mohammad Maraya, Khaled Bani Atiya, and Qassem Qaba’i said the current state of the ruminant sector requires comprehensive national strategies to preserve this vital resource. They highlighted the importance of improving local breeds, enhancing veterinary services, strengthening vaccination and disease prevention programs, and supporting scientific research and agricultural extension, noting that such measures would positively affect farmers’ and breeders’ incomes.

The MPs also called for stronger public-private sector partnerships, increased oversight of imported feed and veterinary medicines, and better market regulation to protect breeders’ rights and ensure the quality of animal products.

They said the committee will continue to follow up with relevant authorities and work to develop practical recommendations aimed at protecting livestock, developing the ruminant sector, and achieving sustainable livestock production in support of the national economy and food security.

Assistant Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture for Livestock Misbah Tarawneh described the ruminant sector as a cornerstone of the livestock industry and highlighted the need for targeted support and training programs, particularly in breed improvement, feed management, and artificial insemination, to raise production efficiency and improve meat and milk quality.

He added that the ministry is coordinating policies related to the import and export of live animals and animal products in accordance with health and epidemiological standards, while supporting small-scale breeders and agricultural cooperatives through training, financing, and the adoption of modern technologies to increase local production and reduce reliance on imports.

//Petra// AJ