Saudi deputy environment minister highlights record aquaculture output as Riyadh hosts SIMEC fisheries expo

SPA

Riyadh, Jan 26 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Mansour bin Hilal Al-Mushaiti said Saudi Arabia’s fisheries sector has posted record results, with aquaculture production exceeding 192,000 tonnes and exports reaching about 59,000 tonnes shipped to more than 35 countries, valued at over 1.3 billion riyals.

Al-Mushaiti delivered the remarks while opening the fifth edition of the Saudi International Marine Exhibition (SIMEC) at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, an event drawing local and international participation.

The deputy minister linked the sector’s growth to a broader policy and investment drive led by the ministry through the National Program for the Development of the Livestock and Fisheries Sector, including initiatives to support fishermen, regulate fishing activity, and develop ports, transport services, processing industries and marketing.

The ministry also cited the implementation of more than 410 projects in marine and inland waters, alongside measures aimed at expanding capacity and improving production efficiency.

During the event, Al-Mushaiti witnessed the signing of 13 memoranda, cooperation agreements and investment contracts with an estimated total value exceeding 316 million riyals, focused on expanding investment opportunities, supporting export growth, and developing fish and algae processing industries in line with Vision 2030 targets for food security and economic growth.

The three-day exhibition includes participation from more than 30 countries and 120 exhibitors, with organisers expecting 15,000 visitors. The programme includes specialised workshops, expert sessions and accompanying events, with participation also noted from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).