Saudi Arabia Goat Meat And Cheese Market

Saudi Arabia Goat Meat And Cheese Market Overview

• The Saudi Arabia Goat Meat and Cheese Market is valued at USD 1.15 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis, supported by multiple industry trackers indicating a market value around USD 1.2 billion in recent assessments. This growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer demand for goat meat and cheese, attributed to its nutritional benefits and cultural significance in the region. Rising health-consciousness and protein-rich diet preferences are repeatedly cited drivers for goat meat and goat cheese in Saudi Arabia.
• Key cities dominating this market include Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Riyadh serves as the capital and a major economic hub, while Jeddah is a significant port city facilitating imports and exports. Dammam, being an industrial center within the Eastern Province and close to key logistics assets (King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam/Jubail), supports local production and distribution, making these cities pivotal in the goat meat and cheese supply chain.
• In 2023, the Saudi government implemented regulations to enhance food safety standards in the goat meat and cheese sector. This includes mandatory inspections and certifications for all meat and dairy products, ensuring compliance with health regulations. The initiative aligns with SFDA’s ongoing enforcement of national food safety standards and inspection programs across meat and dairy, which were reinforced through updated technical regulations and market surveillance in recent years to improve product quality and consumer trust.

Saudi Arabia Goat Meat And Cheese Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into various types, including Fresh Goat Meat (local and imported), Processed Goat Meat (minced, marinated, sausages, burgers, kebabs), Goat Cheese (fresh/soft, semi-soft, hard, aged), Goat Milk and Dairy Derivatives (drinking milk, yogurt/laban, labanah), Goat Meat Cuts (leg, shoulder, ribs, loin, offal), Ready-to-Cook/Ready-to-Eat Goat Meat Meals, and Others (by-products such as bones, fat, broth/stock). Among these, Fresh Goat Meat is currently the leading subsegment due to its high demand in traditional dishes and the growing preference for fresh, locally sourced products.

By End-User:The end-user segmentation includes Retail Households, Restaurants and QSRs, Hotels, Catering, and Institutional Foodservice (HORECA), Export-Oriented Traders and Processors, Traditional Butcher Shops/Meat Markets, and Others (commissaries, community events). The Retail Households segment is the most significant contributor to the market, driven by the increasing consumption of goat meat and cheese in home-cooked meals and the growing trend of healthy eating.

Saudi Arabia Goat Meat And Cheese Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Goat Meat and Cheese Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Al Jazeera Poultry & Meat Co. (Saudi Arabia), Al Kabeer Group (Saudi Arabia/UAE), Almunajem Foods Company, Tanmiah Food Company, Halwani Bros. Co., Savola Foods Company, NADEC – National Agricultural Development Company, Almarai Company, Al Watania Food, Lactalis Group (Président, Galbani, Société – goat cheese imports), Savencia Fromage & Dairy (St. Môret, Chavroux – goat cheese), Fonterra (imported cheese portfolio), Arla Foods (Castello, specialty cheese), Local Goat Farms/Brands (e.g., Al Qassim-based farms, Abha/Asir artisanal producers), Saudi Meat & Livestock Company – SALIC/Tejarah (import/logistics interface) contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Goat Meat And Cheese Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Consumer Preference for Goat Meat:The demand for goat meat in Saudi Arabia has surged, with consumption reaching approximately 50,000 tons in the future. This trend is driven by cultural preferences and the meat's unique flavor profile. The World Bank reports that the per capita meat consumption in Saudi Arabia is projected to increase to 58 kg in the future, indicating a growing market for goat meat as consumers seek diverse protein sources.
• Rising Health Consciousness Among Consumers:Health trends are shifting consumer preferences towards leaner meats, with goat meat being recognized for its lower fat content and higher protein levels. According to the Saudi Ministry of Health, 68% of consumers are now prioritizing healthier food options. This shift is expected to drive goat meat sales, as it is perceived as a healthier alternative compared to beef and lamb, which are higher in saturated fats.
• Expansion of the Food Service Industry:The food service sector in Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid growth, with the market valued at approximately SAR 110 billion in the future. This expansion is fostering increased demand for goat meat and cheese in restaurants and catering services. The Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) reports that the number of food establishments is expected to grow by 12% annually, creating new opportunities for goat meat suppliers to enter the market.

Market Challenges

• Fluctuating Feed Prices:The goat farming industry in Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges due to fluctuating feed prices, which can vary by up to 25% annually. The Saudi Ministry of Agriculture indicates that feed costs account for nearly 65% of total production expenses. This volatility can impact profit margins for goat farmers, making it difficult to maintain stable pricing for goat meat and cheese products in the market.
• Limited Awareness of Goat Cheese Products:Despite the growing popularity of goat meat, consumer awareness of goat cheese remains low, with only 22% of consumers familiar with its benefits. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) reports that goat cheese accounts for less than 4% of the total cheese market. This lack of awareness presents a challenge for producers looking to expand their product offerings and capture a larger share of the dairy market.

Saudi Arabia Goat Meat And Cheese Market Future Outlook

The Saudi Arabia goat meat and cheese market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing health consciousness and a shift towards sustainable farming practices. As consumers become more aware of the nutritional benefits of goat products, demand is expected to rise. Additionally, the expansion of online sales channels will facilitate access to goat meat and cheese, allowing producers to reach a broader audience. Collaborations with local chefs and restaurants will further enhance market visibility and consumer engagement.

Market Opportunities

• Growth in Export Markets:The global demand for goat meat is increasing, with export opportunities projected to reach SAR 600 million in the future. Saudi Arabia can leverage its production capabilities to tap into international markets, particularly in regions with high demand for halal products, enhancing revenue streams for local farmers and producers.
• Development of Value-Added Goat Cheese Products:There is a growing opportunity for the development of gourmet and organic goat cheese products, which are gaining traction among health-conscious consumers. The market for specialty cheeses is expected to grow by SAR 250 million in the future, providing a lucrative avenue for producers to innovate and diversify their product lines.