SAUDI ARABIA MAIZE MARKET

Saudi Arabia maize market is projected to grow at a robust CAGR fueled by increasing corn consumption and higher demand from animal feed industry.

Major Market Drivers and Emerging Trends

Corn is a vital commodity for Saudi Arabia because it is a major element in food supply and livestock feed sectors. Corn is a staple grain and a fundamental part of agriculture in Saudi Arabia because it primarily works as animal feed among others. The food industry in the country benefits greatly from corn based products including cornstarch and corn oil which underscores its essential role.

With expanding populations and higher income levels there is a growing demand for animal-based proteins including eggs and meat. The shift in dietary patterns has put substantial strain on the livestock sector to meet the growing demand which drives the rising need for maize in their feed. Maize is vital in animal feed because it is a primary component in compound feeds for poultry and ruminants. The demand for maize has been further strengthened by the expanded urea cultivation and its broader application in biofuels.

Corn consumption for animal feed in the country is forecast to reach 4.74 million tons by 2025. Corn makes up roughly 60 percent of poultry feed compositions and serves as a vital feed grain for the local dairy sector. The demand for corn is expected to grow significantly in the next few years with Saudi Arabia seeks to become self sufficient in producing chicken meat domestically. As Saudi Arabia produces only a small quantity of corn for human consumption it is estimated to import around 4.5 million tons to fulfill demand in 2025. Latin American corn holds a significant market share in Saudi owing to its competitive pricing and widely recognized quality.

Another factor fueling the Saudi Arabia maize market size growth is the thriving food industry in the country. Its position as the leading economy within the Arab world is reflected in its dynamic food processing sector. An increase in food manufacturing and livestock feed production has led to a surging demand for corn. These industries are heavily dependent on premium grains as key ingredients in their product which makes corn a fundamental element in their operations. Additionally the expanding working population and the increasing demand for convenient meals are propelling the packaged food sector in the country. The growth of this sector is contributing to the rising demand for corn.

The agricultural sector has faced ongoing challenges owing to its geographic location. The dry climate and water shortage make local corn cultivation increasingly challenging. This situation makes Saudi Arabia highly dependent on international markets and countries that produce corn. Unstable weather conditions in major exporting countries may result in supply disruptions which impacts corn availability and prices.

A significant challenge in corn imports is managing the growing demand while contending with global supply disruptions. Even though Saudi Arabia seeks to lessen its dependence on corn imports it continues to prioritize food security as a major concern. Saudi Arabia has been investing in advanced agricultural solutions to mitigate the difficulties in corn cultivation. These efforts involve precision farming methods and greenhouse farming along with irrigation systems that reduce water usage to help promote self sufficiency. Furthermore, to support local farmers while ensuring a stable corn market through imports, policymakers in Saudi Arabia must make crucial decisions on subsidies and import tariffs.

Top Market Players

Several leading companies in the market include Arabian Maize Company, ARASCO, Gulfood Manufacturing, Corn World, among others.

Key Developments

• • In 2024, the US Grains Council’s EMEA office organized a series of discussions with key stakeholders in animal feed manufacturing along with industrial starch industries in Saudi Arabia which aims to directly engage with buyers to know their experiences with US corns.

Saudi Arabia Maize Market Leading players

• • Arabian Maize Company
  • ARASCO
  • Gulfood Manufacturing
  • Corn World