Dairy Industry in Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has seen significant advancements in its dairy industry, driven by major investments and the integration of cutting-edge technologies. This sector plays a crucial role in the nation's economic strategy, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Dairy Cattle and Milk Production
Saudi Arabia boasts a substantial dairy cattle population of approximately 600,000, which supports its aim of achieving self-sufficiency in dairy production. The nation produces around 2 million tonnes of milk annually, highlighting the effectiveness of its farming practices and the strong backing of government initiatives.
Milk Processing and Dairy Production
Each year, Saudi Arabia processes about 1.8 million tonnes of milk to meet the demands of both domestic and international markets. Cheese production is approximately 200,000 tonnes annually, while milk powder and whey production stand at around 100,000 tonnes, catering to a wide range of consumer needs.
Key Enterprises
Leading companies in the Saudi dairy industry include Almarai, Al Safi Danone, and Nadec. These enterprises offer a diverse array of dairy products, with Almarai and Al Safi Dairy Farms recognized for their advanced agricultural practices and high milk yield.
Export and Import
Saudi Arabia exports approximately 500,000 tonnes of dairy products annually, primarily to the GCC, Middle East, and Africa. It imports about 300,000 tonnes, focusing on items that are less commonly produced domestically.
Significant Events and Developments
The implementation of state-of-the-art milk production technologies has significantly enhanced yield and quality. The government's initiatives to bolster food security through localized dairy farming and the expansion of leading dairy firms into international markets are notable. Saudi Arabia's focus on establishing a global dairy market presence is evidenced by a significant agreement with China and exploratory efforts in various Asian and African markets.
Future Prospects
The Kingdom's food and beverage industry is projected to be worth USD $24.29 billion by the end of 2025, driven by innovation and strategic alignment with Vision 2030. Whole fresh milk production is expected to increase to 2.9 million tonnes by 2024, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's status as a global dairy powerhouse. Almarai's role as a leader in the food and beverage sector underlines its commitment to food security, sustainability, and digital transformation in line with consumer expectations and Saudi Vision 2030.
Modified: 2025/08/31