Saudi Arabia Food Import 2026 Market Overview & Trends

Saudi Arabia's import value reached $22.5 billion in 2024, a significant recovery from 2023. While the quantity imported in 2024 (26.7 billion units) is comparable to 2020 levels, the total import value has increased by approximately 30% over the five-year period, indicating a notable rise in the cost of imported goods or a shift toward premium products.

In 2024, India led as the primary exporter to Saudi Arabia with a value of $2.2 billion. Brazil followed with $1.9 billion. The presence of the United States, Argentina, and Russia in the top five highlights a diversified supply chain, with the top two partners contributing over $4.1 billion combined to the market.

Argentina is the fastest-growing partner with a remarkable 92.9% growth rate, reaching $1.37 billion in 2024. Indonesia also shows strong momentum at 41.4%. While India remains a top value partner, its 12.2% growth indicates it is continuing to expand its established market share alongside these rapidly emerging suppliers.

IR 64 rice is the top imported product, valued at $1.98 billion in 2024. Other major staples include yellow maize ($1.21 billion) and cane sugar ($1.19 billion). Notably, herbal supplements represent a significant high-value category at $1.13 billion, indicating diverse consumer demand beyond basic cereal grains.