The average per capita food consumption in the Gulf Cooperation Council in 2029 is expected to be about kilograms. This is a roughly four-kilogram decrease per person from 2024. Overall, food consumption per capital in the GCC is expected to decrease each year during this period.
GCC food consumption
Historically, the per capita volume of food consumed among GCC member countries has varied. Saudi Arabia, having the largest population in the GCC, makes up the greatest share of total food consumption in the council. Still, it was on the lower end of per capita consumption. Food consumption growth projections in the region differ noticeably from country to country. With growing populations and developing, and diversifying economies, food consumption is only expected to rise in the coming years.
GCC food market
The GCC food market revenue is worth billions each year. Although local food production is growing, most GCC member states rely on food imports to fulfill consumer demand. The distribution of food imports covers every category of food products. Additionally, multinational food conglomerates and a wide variety of Western restaurant chains have increased their footprint in the GCC. Nestled between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the GCC is well-connected and has prime access to most of the world’s fresh food supply. Nevertheless, there is also a push to be more self-sufficient. Countries like Oman, which has a strong agricultural and fishing industry, and Saudi Arabia, which has been scaling its indigenous agriculture industry, have done well in this regard. Further initiatives, such as the United Arab Emirates' cooperation with research centers in the Netherlands, are also producing promising results in innovative farming.