@fao

Aquaculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is considered a very promising sector for food  production, food security and employment opportunities. The Government of Saudi Arabia has embarked on an ambitious reform programme to encourage greater participation by the private sector in a more open and competitive economy. Indeed, the country’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector Development Plan has set an annual production target of 1 million tonnes by 2030, starting from current levels of less than 30 000 tonnes per year.

The Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) advocates responsible and sustainable aquaculture projects that are environment-friendly, socially acceptable and technically and economically viable. A marine fish cage culture industry is emerging within the territorial waters with several projects and associated land-based hatchery facilities currently under development. Furthermore, there is a growing interest among national and foreign entrepreneurs to invest as a result of pristine waters and attractive markets. To further promote the sustainable development of the sector, the MoA in close partnership with the FAO, is organizing a National Forum on “Aquaculture Investment Opportunities in Saudi Arabia“ to explore and promote opportunities for investing in aquaculture in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.