South Korea is speeding up attempts to increase food exports to Saudi Arabia, positioning the country as a key Middle Eastern market. Food exports to the region increased 37.9% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, with Saudi Arabia leading the growth. Exports to the Kingdom reached a record high of US$48.3 million in 2024, up from US$37.5 million the year before.
Popular Korean products like ramen, snacks, beverages, ginseng, seaweed, and fresh fruits are in high demand. Hallyu, or the Korean Wave, has contributed to the rise in popularity of Korean food among Saudi customers. Korean supermarkets and restaurants are becoming increasingly common, and brands like Samyang and Nongshim are experiencing excellent sales.
Despite the expansion, regulatory constraints have always made entry into Saudi Arabia difficult. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) is now working with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority to improve procedures and supply exporters with more information.
MFDS Minister Oh Yoo-kyung remarked that establishing a close cooperative network with Saudi officials will help Korean food manufacturers expand throughout the Middle East.
