Saudi Arabia's poultry production exceeds one million tons before Ramadan
The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture announced a new national achievement: poultry production 1.3 million tons annually. This announcement, coinciding with the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, confirms the readiness of local markets to meet the increased demand during this period, reflecting the success of strategic plans aimed at enhancing food security in the Kingdom.
The journey towards self-sufficiency
Reaching this impressive figure in poultry production a coincidence, but rather the result of years of dedicated work aligned with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Historically, Saudi markets relied heavily on imports to bridge the gap between supply and demand. However, with the launch of the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program and the Agricultural Development Fund's support for specialized projects, the sector has witnessed significant leaps forward. The Ministry has focused on increasing self-sufficiency in poultry meat, aiming to reach levels exceeding 80% within the next few years. This will enhance the Kingdom's food independence and reduce its reliance on imports.
Economic and strategic dimensions of domestic production
This expansion in production carries significant economic and regional implications. Domestically, the addition of 1.3 million tons of poultry contributes to price stability and protects consumers from the volatility of global markets and supply chains. Regionally, the Kingdom's enhanced production capacity positions it as a key player in the region's food security system, opening up future export opportunities once self-sufficiency is achieved. Furthermore, this growth supports the national economy by creating thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities in the logistics, food processing, and veterinary sectors.
"Our Land's Bounty" Campaign and Nutritional Value
In a related context, the Ministry, through its awareness campaign "Our Land's Bounty," explained that the poultry sector represents a vital productive pillar of the national economy. The campaign aims to encourage the consumption of fresh, locally produced poultry during Ramadan to ensure reliable self-sufficiency. It noted that current production levels effectively contribute to meeting increasing consumer demand, as the national production system adheres to the highest quality and safety standards to enhance consumer confidence in sustainable local products.
Health benefits and ideal alternatives
The ministry explained that poultry meat boasts exceptional nutritional value, making it an ideal choice for all age groups. This meat is a rich source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing muscles and supporting bodily functions. It is also packed with vital vitamins that play a pivotal role in energy metabolism and supporting brain and nervous system function, and provides essential minerals such as phosphorus for bone health and the antioxidant selenium. Experts have recommended consuming poultry as a healthy alternative to red meat to promote heart health as part of a balanced diet.
