Saudi Arabia attracts diverse international trade interest at Jeddah food show

The Saudi Food Show in Jeddah has highlighted diverse international trade dynamics as Saudi Arabia pursues its Vision 2030 economic goals. Italian companies are expanding their presence, with 37 firms showcasing food products and processing technologies. Italian agri-food exports to the Kingdom approached SR2.2 billion ($587 million) in the first 11 months of 2025.

In contrast, Pakistani food exporters face significant hurdles. While thirty Pakistani companies attended the exhibition, rice suppliers reported difficulty securing deals due to intense competition from India. One Pakistani rice exporter noted that Indian supplies are often cheaper, faster to deliver, and better packaged, with Indian rates around $850 per metric ton compared to $1,050 for Pakistani basmati.

On a broader diplomatic level, the upcoming second EU-GCC Summit in Riyadh on October 24 is expected to shift the partnership toward high-tech sectors. Discussions will focus on investment in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, clean energy, and resilient supply chains, building on a trade relationship that reached €165.7 billion in 2025.