The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Saudi Arabia has reported a 47% increase in potato production in 2023, with the country achieving an 86% self-sufficiency rate. Over 621,750 tons of potatoes were produced, compared to 423,770 tons in 2021. This growth follows the cultivation of more than 17,000 hectares of land with potatoes in 2023, an increase from 15,890 hectares in 2021. The surge in potato production has had a positive effect on the manufacturing sector, encouraging investment and the adoption of advanced technologies.
In 2023, the overall vegetable production in Saudi Arabia reached 3.21 million tons, a 19% increase from 2020. The Ministry attributes this growth in agricultural productivity, which has contributed SAR109 billion to the GDP, to its strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing self-sufficiency, attracting investments, and providing financial support for technology-based projects. These efforts are in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to prioritize local production and reduce reliance on imports, thereby diversifying the national economy.
Source: Saudi Press Agency