Report Overview

Increasing health consciousness among consumers, growing demand for gluten-free products, and availability of a wide range of millet-based products are projected to propel the expansion of Saudi Arabia Millets Market during the forecast period between 2023 and 2029.

Saudi Arabia Millets Market - Industry Trends & Forecast Report, 2029

Saudi Arabia millets market size was estimated at USD 334.77 million in 2022. During the forecast period between 2023 and 2029, Saudi Arabia millets market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.04% reaching a value of USD 472.34 million by 2029. Major growth drivers for Saudi Arabia millets market include increasing popularity of traditional cuisine, growing demand for gluten-free products, and increasing awareness of the health benefits of millets. The Saudi Arabian government has also been providing significant support for the agriculture sector, including the promotion of crops, such as millets, that are well-suited to the local climate. For instance, the Saudi Arabian government has established the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF) to provide financial support for agricultural projects in the country. The ADF provides loans and grants to farmers and agribusinesses to promote agricultural growth and development. In addition, the Saudi Arabian government has invested in R&D initiatives to promote agricultural growth and development. This includes funding for research institutions and universities to develop new and innovative agricultural practices and technologies which is expected to provide lucrative growth opportunities for the market growth during the forecast period.

Saudi Arabia Millets Market – Overview

Millets are typically small-seeded cereal plants that are valued highly for their nutritional content. Over the world, millet comes in a variety of colours, including red, white, grey, and pale yellow. In terms of nutritional value, they outperform popular cereals, such as wheat and rice. The chances for this market's growth in the recent years have been boosted by a global trend towards restoring millet consumption. There are various projects to enhance millet production and consumption to lower the health risks associated with diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions. Regarding economic development and food security, millets are significant in many countries in Asia and Africa. They are becoming more well-known due to their hypoglycaemic and gluten-free qualities.

Saudi Arabia Millets Market

Growth Drivers

Growing Demand for Gluten-Free and Whole Grain Foods

Millet is a gluten-free and whole grain food that is a good alternative for people who are allergic or sensitive to gluten, or those who want to avoid gluten for other health reasons. In addition, millet is a good source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, which makes it a healthy food choice. The prevalence of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease is increasing globally, including in Saudi Arabia. This has led to a growing demand for gluten-free foods in the country, including millet-based products. Moreover, the increasing awareness of the health benefits of whole grain foods is also driving the demand for millet in the country. Whole grains are known to reduce the risk of various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. This has led to a growing demand for whole grain foods, including millet. The rise of health-conscious consumers is also contributing to the growth of the market. Consumers are becoming more aware of the impact of their dietary choices on their health and are seeking out healthy and nutritious food options. As millet is a healthy and nutritious food, it is becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers in Saudi Arabia.

Restraints

Limited Consumer Awareness and Availability of Millets in Some Regions of Saudi Arabia

Limited consumer awareness and availability of millets in Saudi Arabia is a significant restraint for the growth of the millets market in Saudi Arabia. Despite the health benefits and growing demand for millets, many consumers in the region are not aware of millets and their nutritional value. This lack of awareness can result in low demand for millets, limiting the potential growth of the market. Furthermore, the availability of millets can also be limited in some regions of Saudi Arabia.

Millet is not a commonly grown or consumed crop in the region, which can make it difficult for consumers to find and purchase millet-based products. This limited availability can also result in higher prices for millets, further limiting their accessibility to a wider range of consumers. Another factor that can contribute to limited availability of millets is the lack of investment and infrastructure in the millet supply chain, such as processing facilities and distribution networks. Without a robust supply chain, it can be difficult for producers to bring their products to market and for retailers to stock millet-based products on their shelves.

To address these challenges, efforts are needed to increase consumer awareness about the nutritional benefits of millets and to expand the availability of millets in the region. This could include education campaigns, product promotions, and partnerships with retailers to increase the availability of millet-based products. Investment in the millet supply chain, including processing facilities and distribution networks, can also help to expand the availability of millets in the region and improve their accessibility to consumers.

Impact of COVID-19 on Saudi Arabia Millets Market

The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the Saudi Arabia millets market. On one hand, the pandemic has led to an increased demand for healthy and nutritious foods, including millets, as consumers look to boost their immunity and maintain their health. This has led to an increase in the production and consumption of millets in the region. On the other hand, the pandemic has disrupted supply chains and caused logistical challenges in the millets market. Lockdowns and restrictions on movement have made it difficult for producers to transport their products and for retailers to stock their shelves. This has resulted in a shortage of millet products in some areas and higher prices for consumers. In addition, the pandemic has also impacted the livelihoods of millet farmers and producers. With the closure of markets and disruption to supply chains, many small-scale farmers and producers have struggled to sell their products and generate income. To address these challenges, the Saudi Arabian government has taken steps to support the agriculture sector, including the millet industry. This has included providing financial support to farmers and producers, as well as measures to strengthen the supply chain and improve the availability of millet products in the market.

Saudi Arabia Millets Market

Segmental Coverage

Saudi Arabia Millets Market – By Product Type

By product type, Saudi Arabia millets market is segmented into pearl millet, finger millet, proso millet, foxtail millet, and others. During the forecast period, the pearl millet segment is expected to hold a significant market share. Pearl millet is one of the most widely grown types of millet in the region and is a staple crop in many parts of Saudi Arabia. It is a highly nutritious grain that is rich in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Furthermore, pearl millet has a wide range of applications and can be used to make a variety of products, including flour, porridge, and baked goods. This versatility has made it a popular ingredient in the food industry, and demand for pearl millet-based products is expected to continue to grow in the country.

Saudi Arabia Millets Market – By Application

Based on application, Saudi Arabia millets market is segmented into Infant Food, Bakery Products, Beverages, Breakfast Food, Fodder, and Others. During the period in analysis, the infant food segment is expected to hold a significant market share. Millet is a highly nutritious grain that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal food for infants and young children. Millet is also easily digestible, which makes it a popular choice for baby food. In addition, there is a growing trend towards organic and natural baby food products in the region, as parents become more aware of the health benefits of feeding their children with natural and unprocessed foods. Millet-based infant food products fit into this trend, as they are a natural and healthy option for parents who are looking to provide their children with nutritious and organic food.

The demand for millet-based infant food products is expected to continue to grow in the region, as the population of Saudi Arabia is expected to increase in the coming years, which will lead to a higher demand for baby food products.

Saudi Arabia Millets Market - By Distribution Channel

Based on distribution channel, Saudi Arabia millets market is segmented into trade associations, supermarket, traditional grocery stores, online stores, and others. During the forecast period, the supermarket segment is expected to hold a significant market share attributed to their widespread presence and convenience for consumers. Supermarkets offer a one-stop-shop for consumers to purchase a variety of products, including millet, which makes it easier for consumers to incorporate the grain into their diets. Additionally, supermarkets often offer a wide range of brands and product options, making it easier for consumers to find the millet product that best fits their needs and preferences. This convenience and variety are expected to drive the significant market share held by supermarkets in Saudi Arabia millets market.

Competitive Landscape

Major players operating in Saudi Arabia millets market include Al-Ghadeer International, Golden Fields, Fakieh Poultry Farms, Al-Khodari Sons Company, Almarai Company, Abdulaziz Al-Sorayai Trading and Industrial Group, Almarai Feed Factory, Al-Safi Danone, Arabian Agricultural Services Company, and Hail Agriculture Development Company. To further enhance their market share, these companies employ various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, license agreements, and new product launches.

Recent Developments

• In March 2023- A memorandum of understanding was signed by Mozambique and Saudi Arabia to strengthen their mutual collaboration in rural development and agriculture. The main crops grown in Saudi Arabia are alfalfa as well as the following: cereals (wheat, sorghum, barley, and millet), vegetables (tomato, watermelon, eggplant, potato, cucumber, and onions), fruits (date palm, citrus, and grapes), and fodder crops. The agreement covers agricultural cooperation, rural development with an emphasis on agricultural industries and poultry production, livestock breeding and irrigation, sanitary measures, biotechnology, capacity building, agricultural and veterinary work, as well as promoting agricultural investment in Mozambique.

•  In November 2022- A "loan agreement" was signed between Almarai Corporation and the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF) to secure a financing loan of SR 500 million. The ADF made it clear that the financing duration is just one year and that it would be returned over a 12-month period beginning on the date the loan was disbursed and in accordance with the repayment schedule established with the borrower (ADF).

Scope of the Report

By Product Type

• Pearl Millet

• Finger Millet

• Proso Millet

• Foxtail Millet

• Others

     By Application

• Infant Food

• Bakery Products

• Beverages

• Breakfast Food

• Fodder

• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Trade Associations

• Supermarket

• Traditional Grocery Stores

• Online Stores

• Others