Saudi Arabia reports record fisheries output, expands global trade links

SAUDI ARABIA – Saudi Arabia’s fisheries sector has recorded unprecedented growth, with aquaculture production exceeding 192,000 tons and more than 410 projects underway in marine and inland waters, according to Eng. Mansour bin Hilal Al-Mushaiti, Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture.

Approximately 59,000 tons of seafood were exported to over 35 countries, generating revenue exceeding US$350 million (SAR 1.3 billion), reflecting rising global demand for Saudi seafood.

These developments were announced during the opening of the 5th Saudi International Marine Exhibition (SIMEC) at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre, which drew extensive participation from local and international stakeholders in the fisheries and aquaculture industries.

Eng. Al-Mushaiti described SIMEC as a growing platform for international collaboration and commercial engagement, emphasizing its role in presenting the Kingdom’s progress and global partnerships in fisheries.

The sector’s growth is attributed to an integrated framework that combines strategic planning, regulatory reforms, investor incentives, and capacity-building programs for fishermen and industry professionals.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture implements these initiatives through the National Program for the Development of the Livestock and Fisheries Sector, alongside efforts to regulate fishing practices, expand port and logistics infrastructure, and develop processing and marketing channels.

During the exhibition, 13 agreements, memoranda of understanding, and investment contracts valued at over US$84 million (SAR 316 million) were signed between local and international organizations to enhance production efficiency, support processing industries, and expand seafood exports.

SIMEC aims to increase trade in fisheries products through specialized workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, and investment opportunities, encouraging innovation and economic contributions aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

The three-day event features participation from 120 exhibitors in more than 30 countries and is expected to host 15,000 visitors, including business leaders and investors from local and international markets.

The exhibition agenda includes 20 workshops attended by approximately 3,500 participants, presentations by 25 global experts, and five side events focused on networking, technology, and investment in fisheries.

Countries represented at SIMEC include China, South Korea, Russia, Norway, Spain, France, Germany, Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, and Syria, along with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, highlighting widespread international engagement in fisheries development.

Following the opening ceremony, Eng. Al-Mushaiti toured the exhibition, observing new technologies, innovative products, and solutions in aquaculture, and engaging with exhibitors to discuss industry advancements and potential collaboration.

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