Stability in Saudi poultry markets and securing Hajj needs
is experiencing The poultry market in Saudi Arabia remarkable stability and continuous growth, with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture affirming the strength and resilience of the supply chains in this vital sector. Reflecting the success of its strategic plans, the Ministry announced significant increases in domestic production, which is expected to exceed 1.5 million tons. This exceptional achievement translates to a self-sufficiency rate exceeding 76%, thus forming a cornerstone of food security and the national economy in the Kingdom.
The journey to enhance food security and develop the agricultural sector
Historically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has given considerable attention to the agricultural sector and food security. This focus culminated in the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, which places the sustainability of food resources at the forefront of its priorities. The Kingdom has shifted from reliance on imports to building a strong and sustainable local production system. In this context, the Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Mansour Al-Mashiti, chaired an expanded meeting at the Ministry headquarters, which included the General Authority for Food Security and the relevant national committees of the Federation of Chambers. The outcomes of this meeting provided unequivocal assurances regarding the production of poultry meat and its products, guaranteeing price stability and meeting increasing demand, particularly during major religious seasons such as Hajj.
The economic impact of stable poultry markets in Saudi Arabia
The stability of the poultry market in Saudi Arabia has implications not only for the domestic market but also reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading regional model in managing food crises and securing supply chains. Domestically, this stability ensures the provision of safe and healthy food for millions of citizens and residents, as well as for pilgrims during the Hajj season—a logistical challenge that the Kingdom successfully overcomes annually with high efficiency. Furthermore, the Ministry's plans and exemplary projects have resulted in the availability of substantial quantities of fresh meat, alongside support for local feed producers to boost investment in the sector.
Figures and statistics reflecting the strength of local production
In numerical terms, official statistics for the first quarter showed that the top ten companies accounted for 85% of domestic production. Monthly broiler chicken production in March reached approximately 125,470 tons, supported by a strategic reserve of nearly 16,278 tons. To meet diverse consumer demands, around 77,000 tons of heavier chickens weighing over 1,500 grams were produced. Further strengthening the market and its competitiveness, four new companies began actual production at the beginning of this month, introducing their products to retail outlets.
Abundant production of table eggs and secure stockpiles
The success wasn't limited to poultry meat; it extended to other vital products. The ministry concluded its benchmark indicators by estimating daily table egg production at over 24 million eggs. These impressive figures are accompanied by the maintenance of secure stockpiles exceeding 26.6 million eggs by the end of March, equivalent to approximately 74,000 cartons. These proactive measures and strategic reserves ensure the uninterrupted flow of goods in the markets and provide complete reassurance to consumers.
