Saudi Arabia's Cooperatives Power Rural Development and Food Security

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) has underscored the sustained growth of the cooperatives sector in Saudi Arabia. By the end of Q1 2025, the number of cooperatives had reached 198, comprising 111 in agriculture, 42 in livestock, 16 in fisheries, and 29 in the environment sector. This growth underscores their vital role in supporting rural development and enhancing food security in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

 This announcement was made during a ceremony hosted by the ministry in Riyadh, coinciding with the International Year of Cooperatives, proclaimed by the United Nations for 2025.

 To support knowledge and enhance institutional capabilities, MEWA has developed 13 guidebooks for managing agricultural cooperatives, tailored to local needs to foster sustainable models.

 Additionally, the ministry has enhanced agricultural cooperatives' regional and international presence through various participations. These included the regional conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) on strategic cooperative development for the Near East and North Africa. The ministry also collaborated with the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) to publish a comprehensive overview of the status and development of agricultural cooperatives in the Kingdom.