RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has demonstrated substantial progress in bolstering its food security, with self-sufficiency ratios for key products increasing significantly between 2014 and 2023. Recent data released by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) highlights gains in the domestic production of fruits, vegetables, and animal products, reducing the Kingdom’s reliance on imports. This development is a key component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 diversification plan.
The GASTAT report, published in 2024, reveals that dates currently lead in self-sufficiency at 121%, indicating a surplus in production. Other fruits showing high self-sufficiency include figs at 99%. Several vegetables also exhibit strong domestic capabilities, with eggplant at 105%, okra at 102%, cucumbers at 101%, and zucchini reaching 100%. On the animal product side, shrimp production is 149% self-sufficient, dairy products are at 131%, and table eggs at 103%.
Strengthening Food Security in Saudi Arabia
The push for increased food security is a strategic priority for Saudi Arabia, driven by concerns over global supply chain vulnerabilities and a desire to diversify the national economy. Historically, the Kingdom has relied heavily on imported food, making it susceptible to price fluctuations and geopolitical disruptions. The government has implemented various initiatives to encourage domestic agricultural production and attract investment in the sector.
These initiatives include financial support for farmers, investment in irrigation technologies, and the development of agricultural infrastructure. The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture plays a central role in these efforts, working to optimize land use and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the Agricultural Development Fund provides loans and other financial assistance to support agricultural projects.
Recent Gains and Contributing Factors
The report indicates notable increases in self-sufficiency rates from 2023 to 2024 for several important food items. Onions saw a substantial rise of 41.2%, followed by tomatoes at 9.2%, fish at 8.2%, and poultry at 1.4%. These improvements are likely attributable to a combination of factors, including increased investment, technological advancements, and favorable weather conditions.
However, achieving self-sufficiency is a complex undertaking, and progress varies across different product categories. Factors such as water scarcity, soil quality, and climate change pose ongoing challenges to agricultural production in the region. The Kingdom is actively exploring innovative solutions, such as desalination and vertical farming, to mitigate these challenges.
Consumption Patterns and Per Capita Availability
The GASTAT data also provides insights into consumption patterns within the Kingdom. In 2024, rice had the highest per capita share of total available consumption among plant products, reaching 52.1 kg annually. Dates followed closely with a per capita consumption of 35.8 kg per year, reflecting their cultural significance and widespread availability.
For vegetables, the annual per capita share from total availability was 20.50 kg for onions and 19.6 kg for tomatoes. Regarding animal products, annual per capita consumption reached 70.3 liters of milk, 46.9 kg of poultry, and 235 eggs. These figures are important for understanding domestic demand and guiding future production strategies.
The increasing self-sufficiency in dairy and poultry, for example, is linked to significant investments in these sectors over the past decade. These investments have enabled local producers to expand their operations and meet a larger portion of the Kingdom’s demand, reducing the need for imports and bolstering the agricultural sector. The growth in shrimp farming is also a notable success story, driven by advancements in aquaculture technology.
The data collection for this report involved extensive field surveys conducted by GASTAT, alongside register-based information provided by key government entities. This collaborative approach ensures the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the food security statistics. The report also considers factors like import data and livestock inventories to paint a complete picture of the Kingdom’s food supply situation.
While the Kingdom has made significant strides, complete self-sufficiency across all food categories remains a long-term goal. The report highlights the ongoing need for continued investment in research and development, as well as the implementation of policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices. Further diversification of the agricultural base, including the cultivation of a wider range of crops and the development of new farming techniques, will be crucial for achieving greater resilience in the face of future challenges.
Looking ahead, GASTAT is expected to release updated food security data annually, providing a valuable benchmark for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement. The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is currently reviewing the findings of the 2024 report to inform future policy decisions and investment strategies. The success of these efforts will depend on continued collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and research institutions, as well as adapting to evolving global trends in food production and consumption.