Saudi Food Industry Value Tops SAR 200 Billion

The value of Saudi Arabia's food industry has crossed the SAR 200 billion threshold, with the total sector estimated at slightly above that figure in 2026. The milestone confirms the industry's position as a strategic pillar of the Kingdom's economy, supporting both food security and wider diversification goals.

The food manufacturing subsector alone is valued at around SAR 200 billion and ranks among the largest industrial employers in the country. Within manufacturing, official figures placed the food industry sector at roughly SAR 166.1 billion in 2024, growing at 9.2% annually and accounting for about 10% of total manufacturing. It is projected to reach around SAR 247 billion by 2030 at a compound annual growth rate of 6.8%.

Broader measures point to sustained expansion. Official data showed the total value of food production reaching approximately SAR 282.35 billion in 2023, rising to a preliminary SAR 296.53 billion in 2024. Saudi agricultural GDP reached about SAR 114 billion in 2024, reflecting the growing weight of agriculture and agri-food in the economy.

Exports have been a notable bright spot. Saudi food exports have grown by roughly 60% over four years, with export value reaching around SAR 15 billion in 2025 and products now shipped to more than 125 countries.

For residents and businesses across Riyadh, Jeddah and beyond, the growth signals a more resilient local supply of food products, expanding job opportunities in a major industrial sector, and a stronger domestic base that reduces reliance on imports. Standard business licensing and regulatory procedures through the usual government platforms remain in effect for companies operating in the sector.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving