Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market, By Type (ISO 22000, SQF, BRC, IFS, USDA Organic, Halal, Kosher, Others), By Application (Processed Meat & Poultry, Organic Food, Infant Food, Dairy Products, Beverages, Seafood, Others), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market was valued at USD 53.11 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 74.87 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.85%. Food certification plays a critical role in the food industry, as it is an official process that rigorously verifies the quality, safety, and authenticity of food products. This meticulous process is carried out by recognized certification bodies, who meticulously evaluate and assess the compliance of food products with specific standards and regulations. By subjecting food products to comprehensive inspections, testing, and audits, food certification ensures that the entire production and supply chain - from manufacturing to storage and transportation - adheres to stringent safety and hygiene protocols. This meticulous attention to detail guarantees that consumers can have complete confidence in the food they purchase and consume. Moreover, food certification acts as a mark of trust for consumers, serving as a visible symbol that the product has met the highest standards of quality and safety. It provides assurance that the food has been carefully produced, handled, and processed to safeguard consumer health and well-being. In an increasingly complex and globalized food system, food certification is an indispensable tool that promotes transparency, accountability, and consumer protection. It not only ensures that food products meet regulatory requirements but also fosters consumer trust in the integrity and authenticity of the food they consume.

Key Market Drivers

High Demand for Imported Food Products

The most significant growth catalysts for the Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market are the high and rising demand for imported food products. This factor is deeply interconnected with the country’s demographic trends, consumption patterns, trade dependencies, and regulatory environment. Saudi Arabia imports approximately 80% of its total food supply, a strategic necessity driven by structural and environmental constraints. The Kingdom faces severe limitations on arable land and is one of the most water-stressed nations globally, making large-scale domestic agriculture economically and environmentally unfeasible. Saudi Arabia imports a substantial portion of its food due to limited arable land, scarce water resources, and harsh climatic conditions that restrict domestic agricultural output. The country sources a wide variety of food products including dairy, meat, grains, packaged foods, and beverages from Asia, Europe, North America, and neighboring GCC countries. This reliance on imported food necessitates rigorous inspection, testing, and certification mechanisms to ensure that incoming goods meet national safety, hygiene, and religious standards. Consequently, food certification becomes essential for facilitating and regulating the import process. All imported food products must comply with the standards and regulations established by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). These include Halal Certification for all meat and processed food, Conformity to Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO) standards, Accurate labeling and packaging in Arabic, Verification of expiry dates, ingredients, and nutritional content. In this regulatory landscape, certification is not merely a quality assurance tool, but a legal requirement. Importers, manufacturers, and distributors must obtain valid certifications from approved bodies, both locally and internationally, to avoid delays, fines, or rejection at ports of entry.

In Saudi Arabia, food contamination and foodborne illnesses represent a critical public health issue, with prevalent concerns including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and aflatoxins. According to a 2018 report by the Ministry of Health, 176 cases of foodborne illnesses were reported in domestic settings, primarily affecting children. The report highlighted a 65% increase in foodborne incidents at home between 2014 and 2018, underscoring the rising risk of contamination within household food handling. As food crosses international borders, the risk of contamination, adulteration, or spoilage increases. Consumers, especially in the premium and health-conscious segments, are increasingly demanding assurances regarding: Safe handling and storage conditions, Absence of harmful additives or banned substances, Adherence to international food safety management standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000). To meet these expectations and mitigate risk, importers rely heavily on certified supply chains. This, in turn, fuels demand for third-party food certification services that can validate compliance at every stage, from production and transport to retail.

Saudi Arabia sources 80% of its food imports from a diverse network of over 157 countries, underscoring the Kingdom's reliance on global trade to meet its food security needs. Key suppliers include Brazil, the United Arab Emirates, Poland, Ireland, and the United States, highlighting the strategic importance of these trade relationships in ensuring a stable and diversified food supply for the Kingdom. Certification helps unify and simplify quality control procedures across geographies. It ensures consistency in food quality despite variability in sources. As a result, certification is viewed as a strategic tool for supply chain optimization and risk management in food imports. Saudi consumers particularly in urban centers show a strong preference for international food brands and premium imported goods. This trend is amplified by rising incomes, exposure to global cuisines, and the proliferation of global retail chains in the country. These international brands typically rely on well-established certification frameworks to validate their safety and authenticity. To maintain their market position in Saudi Arabia, such brands must: Align with SFDA’s certification requirements, Demonstrate Halal compliance, Show evidence of globally recognized food safety standards. This reinforces the importance of food certification as a market entry and brand positioning tool.

Increasing Demand for Organic Products

The increasing demand for organic food products in Saudi Arabia has become a powerful force shaping the trajectory of the food certification market. In 2021, the organic packaged food and beverage market in the United Arab Emirates was dominated by Hipp GmbH & Co Vertrieb KG, holding a 9.5% value share. It was followed by Arla Foods Amba and Abazeer Trading Co, with respective market shares of 7.9% and 7.1%, solidifying their positions as key players in the segment. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, certification plays a central role in verifying the authenticity and integrity of organic products. This evolving demand is creating new growth opportunities for both domestic and international certification bodies operating in the Kingdom. In Saudi Arabia, the youth demographic is increasingly prioritizing health and wellness over traditional concerns such as financial stability or inflation. This shift represents a significant move towards a health-focused lifestyle, with 43% of Saudis aged 18-24 identifying health as their primary concern, reflecting a broader societal trend towards wellness and proactive health management among the Kingdom's younger generation. A growing segment of the Saudi population particularly urban, affluent, and educated consumers is actively seeking healthier food options. This shift is driven by: Rising prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity and diabetes, Greater awareness of food-related health risks, including pesticides, artificial preservatives, and GMOs, Increased interest in clean eating, plant-based diets, and naturally sourced ingredients. As a result, organic food products, which are free from synthetic fertilizers, chemical pesticides, antibiotics, and growth hormones, are becoming increasingly preferred. However, to build and retain consumer trust, these products must be certified organic through credible third-party verification.

With the growing popularity of organic labels, the risk of false or misleading organic claims has also increased. Consumers want assurance that the products they purchase are genuinely organic and meet recognized standards. This demand for transparency and traceability is fueling the need for formal food certification. Conducting on-site inspections of farms and processing facilities, Verifying compliance with organic standards set by international bodies (e.g., USDA Organic, EU Organic, and the Saudi Organic Regulation), Auditing supply chains to ensure products remain uncontaminated throughout storage, transport, and distribution. Thus, certification acts as a critical trust-building mechanism between producers, retailers, and consumers.

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Key Market Challenges

Potential for Fraudulent Certificates and Malpractice

The demand for food certification in Saudi Arabia could potentially decrease due to the growing concern around fraudulent certificates and malpractice. Unscrupulous entities might produce counterfeit certification labels, misleading customers into believing that food products meet certain standards when they do not. This fraudulent activity taints the legitimacy and trust associated with certified food products, even for those that are genuinely certified.

Furthermore, instances of malpractice, such as non-compliance with certification standards or unethical behaviors by certification bodies, can further erode public confidence. Consumers expect certified food products to meet rigorous standards, and any lapses in integrity undermine the perceived value of food certification. This can lead to a loss of trust and consumer confidence in the certification process. To maintain the demand for food certification in Saudi Arabia, it is crucial to address these issues. Stricter regulation and greater transparency in the certification process can help combat fraudulent activities and ensure that certified food products meet the highest standards. Additionally, educating consumers about the importance of certified food products and the measures taken to ensure their authenticity and quality can help restore trust.

By implementing these measures, the integrity and trust associated with food certification can be preserved, and consumers can have confidence in the products they purchase. This, in turn, will help maintain the demand for certified food products in Saudi Arabia and ensure the safety and quality of the food supply.

Differences in Certification Standards

Saudi Arabia's food certification standards differ significantly from international norms, which is likely to decrease the demand for food certification in the country. The Kingdom implements a stringent set of regulations, religious norms, and standards that are specifically tailored to its cultural and religious context. These unique requirements often pose challenges for international certifying bodies who are accustomed to a more universally adopted set of standards. As a result, many food companies are hesitant to pursue certification due to the additional time, effort, and resources required to meet Saudi Arabia's specific certification criteria. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of mutual recognition of certifications, meaning a certificate obtained under international standards may not be recognized in Saudi Arabia and vice versa. Furthermore, the significant differences in standards often lead to confusion and a lack of clarity for companies seeking certification, further deterring them from the process. Therefore, the demand for food certification in Saudi Arabia is expected to decrease unless steps are taken to align the local certification standards with international norms.

Key Market Trends

Increasing Per Capita Expenditure on Food Products

The surge in per capita expenditure on food products in Saudi Arabia directly correlates with the increasing demand for food certification in the country. As the spending capacity of consumers grows, there is a heightened awareness and expectation for quality and safe food products. This trend has propelled the need for food certification, creating a trust mark which consumers can rely on for assurance of food safety, quality, and authenticity. Food certifications such as ISO 22000, Halal, and HACCP are becoming more prevalent, signifying adherence to stringent quality and safety standards. Moreover, the rise in health-conscious consumers who prefer organic and non-GMO food products further intensifies the demand for food certifications. These certifications not only guarantee the quality and safety of the food items but also ensure that they are produced ethically and sustainably. Furthermore, the government's stringent regulations to ensure food safety are also contributing to this upward trend. Therefore, the increase in per capita expenditure on food is directly propelling the demand for food certification in Saudi Arabia, as consumers are willing to pay a premium for certified, high-quality, and safe food products.

Increasing Cases of Foodborne Illnesses

The correlation between the rising cases of foodborne illnesses and the escalating demand for food certification in Saudi Arabia is unequivocally substantial. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a surge in foodborne illnesses, largely attributed to factors such as improper food handling, inadequate cooking, and contamination. This disturbing trend has triggered widespread concern among consumers, intensifying the call for rigorous food safety standards and reliable certification systems. Food certification serves as a testament to the quality and safety of food products, fostering trust among consumers and promoting a culture of transparency within the food industry. As the public becomes increasingly aware and cautious about their food choices, the demand for certified food products in Saudi Arabia is expected to soar. Moreover, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is intensifying its efforts to ensure the safety and quality of food by implementing stringent certification requirements. This regulatory push further augments the need for food certification, positioning it as a crucial aspect of the food supply chain. Therefore, the escalating cases of foodborne illnesses serve as a catalyst for the booming demand for food certification in Saudi Arabia, fostering a safer and more trustworthy food environment for consumers.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on the Type, ISO 22000 segment emerged as the fastest growing in the Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market. ISO 22000 is an internationally recognized standard that integrates food safety management principles with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) methodology. It provides a structured and scalable framework for managing food safety risks across the entire supply chain from farm to fork. This comprehensive scope makes ISO 22000 particularly attractive to: Food manufacturers, Processors, Distributors, Food service providers. By implementing ISO 22000, Saudi-based food businesses can demonstrate a proactive, systems-based approach to managing food safety risks beyond basic compliance.

Saudi Arabia imports and exports a significant volume of food products. To access international markets and maintain trade partnerships, particularly with Europe, North America, and Asia, exporters must comply with globally accepted food safety standards. ISO 22000 is widely recognized by: International buyers and retailers, Government regulators in export markets, Third-party certification bodies.

As such, Saudi food producers aiming for export growth are increasingly adopting ISO 22000 to remove trade barriers, meet buyer specifications, and gain a competitive edge in foreign markets. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is progressively tightening its food safety regulations and has increasingly emphasized the importance of certified food safety management systems. While SFDA does not mandate ISO 22000 specifically, companies that implement this standard are often seen as better equipped to meet local and international compliance expectations. The structured nature of ISO 22000 covering risk assessment, preventive controls, operational procedures, and documentation helps companies align with evolving regulatory benchmarks more efficiently.

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Regional Insights

Based on region, Northern & Central region emerged as the largest market in the Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market. At the heart of the Central region lies Riyadh, which serves as both the administrative capital and the regulatory nerve center of Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), Major governmental and trade institutions, The headquarters of leading food manufacturing, retail, and distribution companies. With this concentration of economic and policy-making activity, Riyadh exerts significant influence on the implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of food certification standards. The proximity to regulatory authorities facilitates faster compliance, streamlined approvals, and greater pressure to adopt certifications like ISO 22000, HACCP, and SFDA-recognized halal certifications.

The Northern & Central region, particularly Riyadh, accounts for a significant share of the country’s population, with a high percentage of urban, educated, and health-conscious consumers. Certified food products backed by safety and quality assurance, Halal integrity, especially among local and international Muslim consumers, Transparency in sourcing, labeling, and manufacturing practices. This creates a strong market incentive for food producers and retailers in the region to adopt rigorous certification systems to gain consumer trust and differentiate in a competitive landscape.

The Central region hosts a large share of Saudi Arabia’s food processing and manufacturing infrastructure, including: Dairy, bakery, meat, and beverage plants, Cold storage and logistics hubs, Packaging and ingredient suppliers. These facilities are key participants in both domestic and export food supply chains and are subject to stringent certification requirements to ensure supply chain integrity and regulatory compliance. The presence of these production units fuels demand for end-to-end certification services, including audits, training, and documentation support.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Saudi Arabia has launched a targeted halal certification initiative aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of its food and beverage exports. This move is part of a broader strategy to position the Kingdom as a trusted hub for halal-compliant products, reinforcing international confidence in Saudi-certified goods and expanding the country’s footprint in high-growth halal markets worldwide.
• In January 2024, The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has expanded its mandatory halal certification and halal shipment certification requirements to cover a broader range of commonly consumed food products, beyond the previously limited scope of imported meat and meat-based items. This regulatory extension is a strategic measure to reinforce halal integrity across the food supply chain. The SFDA has issued a directive requiring all food importers to obtain both their halal certificates and halal shipment certificates exclusively from certification bodies recognized by the Saudi Halal Center, ensuring compliance with national standards and safeguarding consumer trust in halal-labelled products.

Key Market Players

• ALS Arabia
• AsureQuality Ltd.
• Bureau Veritas
• DEKRA Middle East FZE
• Det Norske Veritas GL AS Dubai
• Intertek Saudi Arabia Ltd.
• Lloyds Register Dubai

Report Scope:

In this report, the Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market, By Type:

o   ISO 22000

o   SQF

o   BRC

o   IFS

o   USDA Organic

o   Halal

o   Kosher

o   Others

• Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market, By Application:

o   Processed Meat & Poultry

o   Organic Food

o   Infant Food

o   Dairy Products

o   Beverages

o   Seafood

o   Others

• Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market, By Region:

o   Eastern

o   Western

o   Northern & Central

o   Southern

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market.

Available Customizations:

Saudi Arabia Food Certification Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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