Fish production in Saudi Arabia increased significantly in 2023, hitting 214.6 thousand tons, up from 119 thousand tons in 2022, an 80% jump. The target for 2024 is 230 thousand tons.
Hussein Al-Nazari, head of the Fisheries Department at the Kingdom’s Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, shared these numbers with Asharq Al-Awsat.
He said the ministry has been working on developing 16 fishing ports in coastal areas to boost marine catch production, increase local fishermen, and improve national food security.
The plan also aims to enhance food quality, create more jobs, and encourage private sector investment in small and medium-sized projects at these ports.
This strategy will add value for fishermen and contribute to the country's overall economic growth.
Al-Nazari mentioned that the ministry is backing various research efforts to support private businesses and find investment chances in manufacturing.
They aim to make the most out of natural resources in fisheries to ramp up sustainable production, enhancing food security and local output as per Vision 2030 goals.
He stressed that locally farmed fish in Saudi Arabia outshine imports in nutrition and safety, thanks to better handling and shorter supply chains.
Al-Nazari also revealed the Kingdom's aim to increase its self-sufficiency in fisheries by improving fish farming quality and diversifying fish varieties, all while ensuring sustainable supply chains.
Al-Nazari noted that the ministry is tackling challenges in the fisheries sector by improving practices and offering support. This includes making procedures easier, providing resources, and strengthening regulations.
They're also working with big and small companies to enhance infrastructure and boost investment.
He stressed that the government values the fisheries sector for its role in food security, local output, and export growth.
The National Program for Animal and Fisheries Development has partnered with local and international entities to improve marine fishing, aquaculture systems, and fish product marketing.