The environment relies on registration to facilitate the import of vegetables and fruits
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture continues its diligent efforts to modernize its legislative framework to ensure alignment with the Kingdom's rapidly evolving economic landscape. In a new initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of supply chains, the Ministry has submitted a proposal through its "Survey" platform to amend Articles 45 and 208 of the Implementing Regulations of the Agriculture Law, which pertain to the mechanisms for importing vegetables and fruits and aquaculture activities.
Fundamental changes to simplify procedures
The proposed amendments included a fundamental change to legal terminology to ensure consistency and uniformity in government regulations. The term "investment license" was changed to "registration with the Ministry of Investment." This step aims to eliminate duplication of requirements and recognize "registration" as a sufficient official document for foreign investors to conduct business, thus streamlining the investor journey and reducing bureaucratic burdens.
The updated regulations require importers wishing to bring fresh fruits and vegetables into the Kingdom to submit an electronic application for an import permit. The regulations stipulate that the importer must be a licensed Saudi entity or a foreign investor who has completed the registration procedures with the Ministry of Investment, without prejudice to the requirements of the Gulf Cooperation Council's agricultural quarantine system. This ensures a balance between facilitating trade and protecting plant life and public health.
Supporting food security and Vision 2030
These moves come within a broader context aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes food security. By streamlining import procedures for qualified foreign investors, the Kingdom aims to diversify its food sources and ensure price stability in local markets, particularly during peak demand seasons. Reducing procedural barriers for international companies enhances the competitiveness of the Saudi market and attracts major players in the fresh produce sector.
Boosting the aquaculture sector
The amendments did not overlook the promising aquaculture sector, which is a strategic pillar of the Kingdom's fisheries development program. Article 208 stipulates that foreign investors wishing to establish projects in this field must register with the Ministry of Investment as a prerequisite, while existing licenses issued by the Ministry to local individuals and companies will remain valid.
This amendment is particularly important given the aquaculture sector's need for advanced technologies and substantial investments, often provided through foreign partnerships. Simplifying entry procedures for this sector is expected to increase the Kingdom's fish production capacity, supporting self-sufficiency and opening new export opportunities in the future, while always maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.
