US Beef Export Rules to Saudi Arabia Eased in 2026

Saudi Arabia has broadened access for imported beef, with expanded United States export terms taking effect on 2 March 2026. Under the change, US beef shipments no longer require participation in the Agricultural Marketing Service Export Verification (EV) program, a step expected to increase available supply and diversify the Kingdom's import sources.

US shipments now move under a revised export certificate that removes the previous EV-program feeding attestation. The adjustment streamlines paperwork while keeping the Kingdom's core food-safety and eligibility requirements in place.

Approved plants and halal conditions

All imported meat must originate from foreign establishments formally approved by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). The authority maintains country-specific lists of authorized bovine and ovine plants for major suppliers including Australia, Brazil, India, the United Arab Emirates, Canada and the United States.

Recent updates show the supply chain remains active across several countries. The Australian ovine meat list was refreshed on 29 June 2026 with multiple plants marked active for slaughter, cutting and processing. Brazil's bovine list was updated on 12 April 2026, India's on 28 January 2026, and Canada's approved cattle-meat plants were current as of 20 January 2026.

Import rules remain strict. Pork and any pork-containing products are prohibited. Meat must be shipped in sealed containers bearing official seals, and every consignment requires certification of ritual halal slaughter and halal feed from Islamic bodies acceptable to Saudi authorities. For Canadian-origin exports, eligible products include beef and offal from cattle of all ages produced after 16 October 2024.

For residents and families across the Kingdom, wider approved sourcing supports steady availability of beef and other red meat in local markets, while the halal and safety safeguards that shoppers rely on continue to apply.

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