Italian Food Exports to Saudi Arabia Near SAR 2.2bn

Italian agricultural, food, and beverage exports to Saudi Arabia approached SAR 2.2 billion during the first 11 months of 2025, reflecting the growing appetite for Italian products in the Kingdom's fast-expanding food market.

Italian food products alone accounted for more than SAR 1.77 billion of that figure, a rise of 7.7% compared with the same period a year earlier. The steady growth underlines how brands from pasta and olive oil to cheeses and confectionery continue to find shelf space in stores and restaurants across Riyadh, Jeddah, and beyond.

The wider trade relationship remains substantial. Total trade between Italy and Saudi Arabia reached roughly SAR 45.3 billion in 2025, with Italian exports to the Kingdom totaling around SAR 27.8 billion.

Italian producers are also stepping up their presence at industry events. A total of 37 Italian companies took part in the Saudifood Show 2026 in Jeddah, while a further 20 joined Saudi Food Manufacturing 2026, signaling continued interest in supplying and partnering with the local sector.

Poultry import suspension

On the health side, Saudi Arabia's Food and Drug Authority has temporarily suspended imports of poultry meat, table eggs, and related products from Italy's Veneto region following a severe outbreak of avian influenza. The measure is a precautionary step affecting only that region and its listed products.

For residents and shoppers, the figures point to a widening choice of Italian food on local shelves, while the poultry suspension is a routine safety measure that consumers may wish to keep in mind.

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