Saudi Arabia to import more barley, corn

Saudi Arabia’s wheat imports in 2025-26 are expected to drop 10% as the nation encourages domestic production and purchases, according to a report from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the US Department of Agriculture.

Total wheat imports are estimated at 3.1 million tonnes, down from 3.402 million tonnes in 2024-25. Top suppliers include Russia, Brazil, Uruguay and Bulgaria.

Local wheat production is expected to reach 1.1 million tonnes as the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) has incentivized production with a procurement price of 1,750 SAR ($467) per tonne, the FAS said.

“This pricing strategy aims to shift the farmer’s focus away from water intensive alfalfa hay, which has historically offered higher profitability,” the FAS said.

 Barley imports also are expected to increase from 1.9 million tonnes in 2024-25 to 4.2 million tonnes in 2025-26.

“Imported barley in Saudi Arabia is used exclusively for animal feed, and a small quantity is used for brewing nonalcoholic beer,” the FAS said. “The increase in global barley supply has led to lower international prices, which, in turn, have stimulated barley demand in Saudi Arabia and opportunistic purchasing.”

Demand also has increased due to new livestock programs aimed at strengthening food security.

Top barley suppliers include Argentina, Russia, Romania, Australia and Turkey.

Corn demand in Saudi Arabia is projected to remain strong, supported by the continued expansion of domestic poultry operations and feed processors, the FAS said.

Imports from Latin and North America continue to dominate the market due to competitive pricing and consistent quality, especially from the United States.

Imports are estimated at 4.7 million tonnes in 2025-26, up from 3 million tonnes the previous year. High global supply, lower prices and sustained growth in poultry and livestock were contributing factors, the FAS said.

Tags: corn, barley, Saudi Arabia, wheat