Saudi Arabia’s Fish Farm Production Rises 56.4%
Aquaculture industry sees rapid expansion, contributing to Saudi Vision 2030 goals
Saudi Arabia Achieves 56.4% Growth in Fish Farm Production by 2023
RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has announced a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s aquaculture industry: saltwater and inland water cultured fish production will increase by 56.4% from 2021 to an unprecedented 140,000 tons in 2023.
In addition to aquaculture, marine fisheries in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf contributed 74,700 tonnes, representing an increase of 16.2% over 2022. This brings the total fish production from aquaculture and marine fisheries to 214,000 tonnes by 2023.
The Ministry has implemented strategic plans to increase domestic fish production, improve quality, diversify species and encourage investment.
A target has been set to increase per capita fish consumption to 13 kilograms annually.
Popular fish species in Saudi Arabia include Nile tilapia, sea bass, tentacles and shrimp.
The fisheries sector has seen rapid growth due to the ministry’s efforts to attract investment and modernize the industry. The number of aquaculture projects has expanded significantly.
By supporting small fishermen, encouraging technology adoption and streamlining investment processes, the ministry aims to promote the private sector and increase the contribution of the agricultural sector to GDP, in line with the Saudi Vision 2030 goal of diversifying the economy.
