Saudi Arabia is prioritizing food security and sustainability as part of its efforts to build a more inclusive economy. By increasing domestic production and investing in global supply chains, the Kingdom seeks to secure essential commodities not available locally.
Strategic reforms and strengthened international cooperation are crucial to addressing global food insecurity, noted Abdulrahman Al-Fadley, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, during the recent G20 agriculture ministers’ meeting in Brazil.
“There is an urgent need for long-term transformation in food security and nutrition,” Al-Fadley told attendees, highlighting the importance of collaboration to develop sustainable, inclusive food systems.
The G20 agriculture, fisheries, and aquaculture ministers gathered on September 12-13 in Chapada dos Guimarães to discuss enhancing the resilience of food systems, supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Saudi Arabia’s efforts to boost food production have yielded significant results. By September 2023, the Kingdom achieved self-sufficiency in fresh dairy products and eggs, with surplus for export. Additionally, domestic production of crops such as potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, onions, and red meat has increased.
This progress reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to engaging stakeholders across the private sector and civil society. One key player is Topian, a company launched by NEOM in 2023.
Topian is redefining food production and consumption by focusing on five pillars: climate-resilient agriculture, regenerative aquaculture, novel foods, personalized nutrition, and sustainable supply chains. Supported by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Topian aligns with Vision 2030’s goals for national development and economic diversification.
“Topian is driving the conversation on food security and sustainability, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s self-sufficiency and economic goals,” said Juan Carlos Motamayor, Topian’s CEO. “We aim to set a global benchmark by pioneering new technologies and solutions for sustainable food production.”
Topian has established strategic partnerships with institutions such as King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Tabuk University, and Tabuk Fish Company, fostering research and innovation in food production.
Additionally, Topian supports NEOM CARE, an initiative that promotes sustainable gastronomy and provides training to develop Saudi talent.
Another critical initiative is KAUST’s Center of Excellence for Sustainable Food Security, founded in 2024. Led by plant science and agriculture expert Mark Tester, the center leverages technology to enhance food production in arid environments, translating research into practical solutions that reduce environmental impact.
The center addresses challenges in resource efficiency, crop improvement, and sustainable biosystems, aiming to boost food security while minimizing the ecological footprint.
Did You Know?
- Food systems account for 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions, 80% of deforestation, and 45% of groundwater use, contributing significantly to biodiversity loss.
- Saudi Arabia targets a 75% reduction in food waste by 2050, promoting plant-based diets and sustainable seafood.
- The Kingdom aims to cut degraded land by 50% by 2050 and achieve land degradation neutrality by 2030.
Tester emphasized that advancing sustainability requires improvements across the entire food production chain — from land preparation and crop enhancement to waste reduction and education.
By integrating Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies such as AI, IoT sensors, and robotics, the center enhances agricultural sustainability. Nanotechnology and biogenetics further bolster crop resilience and reduce environmental impact.
Through initiatives like the Edible Education Program, the center reconnects children with the origins of their food by involving them in schoolyard farming and integrating fresh produce into school meals.
Saudi Arabia continues to foster agricultural growth through increased domestic and international investments. Agricultural loans have surged over the past four years, contributing to a 35% rise in the Kingdom’s agricultural GDP.
