SAUDI ARABIA FRUITS & VEGETABLES MARKET

There has been a rapid development of agricultural sectors in Saudi Arabia, as it has been one of the leading countries with agrarian economy in the region, where extensive desert areas have been transformed for agriculture.

In the past, the agricultural sector was mainly focused on date farming alongside small-scale vegetable production. But today, Saudi Arabia has been exporting dates, wheat, vegetables, and other natural products to many countries around the world.

Major Saudi Arabia Fruits and Vegetables Market Drivers and Emerging Trends

The food security efforts by the government play a crucial role in driving the impressive expansion of the fruits and vegetables market in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Agriculture and other government agencies including the Saudi Arabian Agricultural Bank (SAAB), provide subsidies and interest-free loans to farmers. In addition, the government also allocated significant investments in irrigation infrastructure, and introduced advanced farming techniques like hydroponics and farming in vertical structures. Moreover, the government also provides land distribution and reclamation programs, alongside research project funding. Vision 2030 can further drive the market to grow, as it encourages the productivity of the agricultural industry, hence can meet the surging demand for fresh produce. 

People’s preferential leaning towards a healthy diet, combined with the rapid urbanization, fostered greater demand for organic and natural foods, which also contributes to the market’s expansion. The country’s population is also gradually conscious of the source of the food they consume. Locally grown fruits and vegetables dominate the market since they are available widespread across the nation.

The country has also seen the shift towards greenhouse farming. This production method can enhance efficiency and productivity in the farming process compared to traditional farming. Greenhouse farming can extend the growing seasons, improve crop protection, and prevent disease and pests. Compared to traditional farming, greenhouse farming also produces less pollution, consumes less energy, and more resource conservation. With the increased production, greenhouse farming can meet the increasing demand and therefore propel the growth of fruits and vegetables market in Saudi Arabia. By implementing sustainable farming methods, the country can contribute to preserving the environment and be responsible in land management.

The expansion of supermarkets can further increase the quality and availability of fruit and vegetable products. In addition, with the growth of e-commerce, many consumers can also purchase products online, therefore improving the accessibility to acquire the product. 

Technological advancements combined with AI and IoT become the opportunity for the market to expand. The government’s initiatives and the country’s Vision 2030 can further pave the way for the acceleration of the market development.

However, the stringent regulations, disease and pest problems, and products imported at lowers costs can be the challenges that hinder the growth of fruit and vegetables market in Saudi Arabia.

Several top players in the market include Carrefour, Abdullah Al-Othaim Markets, Spar International, LULU Group International, among other leading players.

Product – Segment Analysis

Based on the product, dates are projected to lead the market. Not only in the country, but Saudi Arabia is leading the world for dates production. Dates are a popular snack and also a staple food for thousands of years in the country. Especially during the holy month of Ramadan, there will be a surging demand as there is a high consumption rate of dates. In 2023, the country produced 1.6 million tons with 300 varieties and exported them to 111 countries.

Segments covered in the Report:

The Saudi Arabia Fruits & Vegetables Market has been segmented on the basis of Product Type, Nature and Distribution Channel. Based on the Product Type, the market is segmented into Dates, Watermelons, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Onion, Garlic, Beans, Banana, Apple, Cauliflower, Others. Based on the Nature, the market is segmented into Conventional and Organic. Based on the Distribution Channel, the market is segmented into Supermarket/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Grocery Stores, Specialty Stores, online.

Market Segmentation

Saudi Arabia Fruits & Vegetables Market by Product Type

• • Dates
  • Watermelons
  • Potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Beans
  • Banana
  • Apple
  • Cauliflower
  • Others

Saudi Arabia Fruits & Vegetables Market by Nature

• • Organic
  • Conventional

Saudi Arabia Fruits & Vegetables Market by Distribution Channel

• • Supermarket/Hypermarkets
  • Convenience Stores
  • Grocery Stores
  • Speciality Stores
  • Online