Saudi Arabia’s food and agricultural imports are expected to grow 25 per cent in 2009 to surpass the SR56.35 billion ($15 billion) spent on such products in 2008, according to a report.

The country is currently the GCC’s largest agricultural importer, with food and agricultural products accounting for around 13 per cent of total imports and currently representing the fourth biggest domestic import sector.

The upcoming Saudi Agro-Food 2009, the 16th International Trade Show for Food Products, Processing and Packaging Technologies, will provide an overview of the various investment opportunities available in Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning food sector.

Organised by Riyadh Exhibitions Company, Saudi Agro-Food 2009 will be held from November 1 to 4, at the Riyadh International Exhibition Centre, featuring the latest food and agricultural products and services from around 350 exhibitors representing more than 20 countries.

“Saudi Arabia’s food demand is witnessing a substantial and rapid surge, as the kingdom holds one of the world’s fastest population growth rates. In line with that, Saudi consumers have become highly demanding in terms of quality, nutritional value, price, and packaging,' stated Khalid Daou, project manager of Saudi Agro-Food at Riyadh Exhibitions Company.

'Thus importers are constantly seeking innovative and top of the line products, while closely collaborating with their suppliers. Saudi Agro-Food will serve as an excellent venue for keeping consumers, investors and businesses abreast of the latest food products, services and trends.”

“The domestic food business in Saudi Arabia continues to evolve in terms of diversity and competitiveness. We are witnessing the emergence of numerous food distribution channels, franchises, hypermarkets and restaurants, which heavily rely on bulk imports and branding.”

The comprehensive exhibition will cover products, technologies and services ranging from food processing, packaging and bakery equipment to frozen and chilled foods, health and natural foods, and fruits, vegetables and groceries.

To be held concurrently with Saudi Agro-Food 2009 at the newly opened state-of-the-art Riyadh International Exhibition Centre are the Recycling & Waste Management Saudi Arabia 2009 – The 2nd International Recycling and Waste Management Exhibition; and Saudi Agriculture 2009 – The 28th International Agriculture, Water and Agri-Industry Show, which is the largest agriculture exhibition in the Middle East, he added.-TradeArabia News Service