Saudi Arabia wants to reduce import dependence on fresh produce and stimulate local cultivation

Saudi Arabia is taking steps to increase its self-sufficiency in fruit and vegetable cultivation, currently at 38%, by focusing on expanding local farming. The government is pursuing this to reduce reliance on imports. The country already achieves 100% self-sufficiency in date production and nearly 100% in aubergine and figs. In response to the pandemic, efforts to ensure food security have led to the agriculture and food sector's resilience, with growth reported in the first quarter of 2021. The government also aims to grow the organic market to meet demand.

Additionally, the Saudi economy has shown signs of recovery, with a return to annual growth in the first quarter of 2021, signaling resilience in the agriculture and food sector during the pandemic. This was achieved through efforts to maintain food security, such as increasing exports and temporarily relaxing import regulations.

To further boost the local organic sector, the government has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This indicates a commitment to enhancing self-sufficiency in food production while addressing the rising demand for organic products.