United States hosts first official pavilion at Saudi Food Show

The United States hosted its first official American Pavilion at the Saudi Food Show in Jeddah, featuring dozens of U.S. companies and trade associations. The pavilion showcased a variety of products, including beef, potatoes, rice, grains, fresh produce, nuts, snacks, and beverages.

This increased presence follows recent developments in agricultural trade cooperation, specifically Saudi Arabia’s decision to ease export requirements for U.S. beef. As of March 2, 2026, Saudi Arabia eliminated the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service Export Verification requirement for U.S. beef and beef products.

U.S. Consul General in Jeddah Rafik Mansour visited the pavilion to encourage companies to expand within the Saudi market. Agricultural Attaché Chris Frederick noted that halal compliance remains fundamental to market access, managed through U.S. certification bodies approved by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority’s Saudi Halal Center.