Saudi Arabia to Reduce Wheat and Corn Imports but Increase Barley Purchases

Published 2025년 3월 25일

Tridge summary

Saudi Arabia plans to reduce wheat imports by 10% in the MY 2025/26, bringing the total to 3.2 million metric tons, due to increased domestic production with government support. The country also expects a decrease in corn imports by 500,000 metric tons compared to the record-high 5 MMT in the MY 2023/24. Wheat production is supported by a quota system, and the government intendss to phase out alfalfa production by the MY 2027/28. Barley imports are projected to rise by 10% in the MY 2025/26, and rice imports are expected to drop by 14% in 2025. These changes reflect Saudi Arabia's efforts to adapt its agri-food policies to changing economic and environmental conditions.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

Saudi Arabia will reduce wheat imports by 10% in the MY 2025/26, cutting purchases to 3.2 million metric tons (MMT) due to increased domestic production, which may reach 1.5 MMT with government support. Corn imports are also expected to decline by 500,000 metric tons compared to the record-high 5 MMT in the MY 2023/24, the USDA reported. Wheat production in the country is supported by a quota system, allowing up to 5,000 small farmers to cultivate the crop on plots of up to 50 hectares annually and sell it at a government-set purchase price. The price is expected to remain at $480 per ton in 2025, making wheat cultivation profitable. Additionally, the government plans to phase out alfalfa production by the MY 2027/28, which could further boost wheat production. In contrast, barley imports are projected to rise by 10% to 3.3 MMT in the MY 2025/26, driven by lower global prices and strong demand from livestock farmers. Saudi Arabia does not produce feed barley, relying entirely on ...

Source: UkrAgroConsult