The GCC procures 85% of its food requirements from overseas, making food security a key challenge in a time of worsening climate disasters. Approximately 85% of GCC countries’ food is imported. This proportion rises to 90% for cereals, and almost 100% of rice is imported. This overdependence on foreign production creates significant vulnerabilities in the GCC nations’ food supply chains. The vulnerability of these systems was conveniently demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic just a few years ago.

The Middle East remains one of the most import-dependent regions globally for essential food products such as dairy, meat, fruits, and vegetables. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Egypt are central to this market, which continues to grow as consumer demand for high-quality and ethically sourced products rises. Alongside this trend, the global halal market is expanding rapidly, influencing the region’s food import strategies and preferences.

As the global halal food market is expected to reach $5.8 trillion by 2032, the Middle East has cemented its role as a crucial hub for the halal food industry. This growth is driven by increased demand for halal-certified meat, dairy, and other food products, not just from Muslim consumers but also from non-Muslims who prioritize ethical consumption.

GCC Countries Regard Food Security as a Critical Issue that Concerns Many Nations & Regional & International Organisations, Affirms that the General Secretariat, Through its Strategic Partnerships, Places this Issue at the Top of its Priorities: Their Excellencies, members of the GCC Agricultural Cooperation and Food Security Committee, discussed several important topics related to joint cooperation in agriculture, livestock, fisheries and food security among the GCC countries, and made appropriate decisions regarding them.