Saudi Arabia is the main market in the Gulf region with the greatest long-term growth prospects, as its population is constantly growing, and a normal family is made up of an average of 6.4 people.
The agri-food and beverage industry in Saudi Arabia is considered one of the most attractive and profitable sectors of the Kingdom’s economy, given that the country imports on average 70% of its food needs from other countries.
Italy exported food products to Saudi Arabia for a value that in 2021 was over 295 million euros, with a slight decrease of 0.8% compared to 2020. Based on government initiatives to promote foreign investment, the food industry in Saudi Arabia has the potential to attract significant private investment, particularly in key sectors that contribute to the growth of local food consumption.
This sector is very interesting for Italian companies that export the following types of products: consumer products and machines and machinery.
The main consumer products exported:
• Rusks, biscuits, and preserved pastry products: in 2021the export value of these products was over 75 million euros compared to 65.6 million in 2020.
• Pome fruit and stone fruit: in 2021 these products recorded a value of over 75 million euros, an increase of 35.9% compared to the previous year (42 million in 2020).
• Cocoa powder, chocolate, sweets and confectionery: the value of these products for 2021 was 54.5 million euros, an increase compared to previous years (49.4 million in 2020).
The main machines exported within the agrifood sector:
• Machines for the food industry: these products (including parts and accessories) recorded a value of89.3 million euros in 2021, in growth if compared to the 62.2 million in 2020.
• Automatic machines for dosing, packing and packaging: in 2021 the value of these types of machinery was 39.3 million euros.
