Saudi Arabia Poultry – $5B Investment for Self-Sufficiency

The poultry industry in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by a strategic push for self-sufficiency as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. With ambitious investments, government support, and a focus on food security, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a regional leader in poultry production, aiming to reduce its reliance on imports and meet growing domestic demand.

This article explores the key developments, challenges, and opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward complete poultry self-sufficiency, from hatcheries through the worlds most advanced poultry processing plants that operate on high speed with significant results.

A Strategic Vision for Food Security

Saudi Arabia’s poultry sector has long been a cornerstone of its food industry, accounting for the largest share of the Middle East poultry meat market, valued at USD 16.25 billion in 2025, according to Mordor Intelligence. The Kingdom’s focus on self-sufficiency is a response to both economic and geopolitical imperatives. Historically reliant on imports for a significant portion of its poultry needs, Saudi Arabia has made remarkable strides, increasing its self-sufficiency from 45% in 2016 to 68% by 2022, as reported by the Middle East Poultry Expo 2025 organizers. The target now is to reach 80% self-sufficiency by the end of 2025, a goal backed by substantial investments and policy support.

In January 2025, Bloomberg reported that Saudi Arabia is investing $5 billion to boost poultry production, aiming to produce 1.3 million tons of broiler chickens annually. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, includes issuing 275 new licenses for broiler and egg production projects. Additionally, the government has allocated subsidies exceeding 665 million riyals to support these efforts, reflecting a commitment to enhancing food security while creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

Government Support and Industry Growth

The Saudi government’s role in this transformation cannot be overstated. Vision 2030, launched in 2016, emphasizes reducing dependency on oil revenues and strengthening domestic industries, including agriculture. Poultry production has been identified as a priority sector due to its demand as affordable-proteins, significance in trendy food, and alignment with halal dietary requirements—a key factor in the Middle Eastern market. A March 2025 forecast by GlobeNewswire projects the Saudi poultry market to grow to $5.62 billion by 2033, driven by halal certification, cultural alignment, and expanding retail and foodservice sectors.

The Ministry’s efforts are complemented by events like the Middle East Poultry Expo 2025, scheduled for April 14-16 in Riyadh. As the largest B2B poultry event in the region, the expo will host over 300 exhibitors from 40 countries and attract 11,130 visitors, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the sector.

The Kingdom contributed 71% of the Middle East’s poultry production in 2022, a testament to its growing dominance, and the expo will serve as a platform to foster innovation, attract investment, and address industry challenges.

Challenges on the Path to Self-Sufficiency

Despite these advancements, Saudi Arabia is on track in achieving its self-sufficiency goals.

Another challenge is the competition in the halal poultry market. While Saudi Arabia is reducing its reliance on imports, countries like Brazil, the world’s largest poultry exporter, continue to supply significant volumes to the region. A Reuters article from July 2024 noted Brazil’s strong demand from Saudi Arabia, with exports averaging 431,400 metric tons monthly through June 2024. Brazil’s competitive pricing and established halal certification processes make it a formidable player, even as Saudi Arabia ramps up domestic production.

Additionally, the high cost of establishing and maintaining modern poultry farms poses a financial challenge. While government subsidies help, the industry must balance cost-efficiency with the adoption of advanced technologies, such as automated hatchery and processing equipment, to remain competitive. Companies like Isotek Egypt, which specialize in such equipment, play a crucial role in supporting this transition by providing innovative solutions tailored to the region’s needs.

Opportunities for Growth and Innovation

The push for self-sufficiency opens numerous opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s poultry industry. The growing domestic market, driven by population growth and rising demand for affordable protein, provides a strong foundation for expansion. Poultry’s lower carbon footprint compared to other meats also aligns with global sustainability trends, making it an attractive option for both consumers and policymakers.

Technological innovation is another key opportunity. The adoption of advanced hatchery and poultry processing equipment can enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality. As Isotek Egypt, we are committed to supporting this growth by providing state-of-the-art solutions that meet the unique needs of Middle Eastern poultry producers. From automated systems to biosecurity enhancements, our equipment is designed to help farms scale sustainably while maintaining high standards.

The Middle East Poultry Expo 2025 is a critical platform for showcasing such innovations. With exhibitors presenting the latest in poultry farming technology, Saudi producers can explore new tools to boost productivity and address challenges like disease management. The event also facilitates networking and partnerships and we will be glad to meet you there.

Looking Ahead: A Regional Leader in Poultry Production

Saudi Arabia’s journey toward poultry self-sufficiency is a testament to its strategic vision and resilience. By 2030, the Middle East poultry meat market is expected to reach USD 17.83 billion, with Saudi Arabia leading the charge, according to Mordor Intelligence. The Kingdom’s investments, policy support, and focus on innovation position it to not only meet domestic demand but also emerge as a regional hub for poultry production and trade.

However, achieving and sustaining self-sufficiency will require ongoing efforts to address challenges like avian influenza, market competition, and operational costs. Collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and technology providers will be essential to ensure long-term success. As Saudi Arabia continues to build a robust and sustainable poultry sector, it sets an example for other nations in the region, demonstrating the power of strategic planning and innovation in achieving food security.

At Isotek Egypt, we are proud to be part of this transformative journey, supporting Saudi Arabia’s poultry industry with cutting-edge equipment and expertise. Together, we can build a future where self-sufficiency is not just a goal but a reality, ensuring food security, is a critical component of economic sovereignty. A steady production of high-quality poultry for generations to come.