Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has confirmed continued growth in the cooperative associations sector across Saudi Arabia. By the end of Q1 2025, the Kingdom had 198 cooperative associations in operation, including 111 agricultural, 42 livestock, 16 fisheries, and 29 environmental associations. These cooperatives play a vital role in supporting rural development and enhancing food security, directly aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 targets.

The announcement was made during a ceremony in Riyadh, held in conjunction with the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives. The event gathered experts, cooperative leaders, and government representatives to discuss the sector’s progress.

Growth Supports Rural Development

The Ministry reported the registration of 16 new cooperative associations this year across agriculture, livestock, and fisheries. This reflects the Kingdom’s efforts to empower the cooperative sector as a sustainable economic model that strengthens local communities.

The distribution of cooperatives across regions includes:

  • Riyadh with 32 associations
  • Makkah and Asir with 25 each
  • Eastern Province with 21
  • Qassim with 19
  • Jazan with 17
  • Hail and Madinah with 12 each
  • Al-Baha with 10
  • Al-Jouf with 7
  • Najran, Tabuk, and Northern Borders with 6 each

These associations contribute to boosting agricultural productivity, improving livelihoods, and ensuring food security, especially in rural areas.

Empowering Saudi Agricultural Cooperatives Through Capacity Building

To support cooperative development, the Ministry has created 13 tailored guides for managing agricultural cooperatives. These manuals are designed to address local needs and promote sustainable, successful cooperative models.

Saudi agricultural cooperatives also enhanced their global presence through participation in key events, including:

  • The FAO Regional Conference
  • The International Association for Agriculture in the Near East and North Africa
  • The Cooperative Sector Forum in Qassim
  • Collaboration with the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA)

These efforts aim to strengthen knowledge exchange, showcase Saudi achievements, and contribute to global discussions on cooperative development.

The Ministry reaffirmed that supporting Saudi cooperative associations remains a strategic priority to enhance food security, empower rural communities, and expand agricultural productivity in line with Vision 2030.

 

 

The Saudi Standard’s View: Cooperatives Powering Rural Growth and Food Security

The growth of Saudi cooperative associations reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to building a strong, community-driven agricultural sector. With 198 associations now active, these cooperatives are key players in advancing rural development, supporting small producers, and boosting food security. Their expansion aligns with Vision 2030’s focus on sustainable agriculture, local empowerment, and reducing reliance on imports. Continued institutional support, global partnerships, and investment in capacity building will be essential to ensuring cooperatives reach their full potential in transforming the rural economy and strengthening national food resilience.

 

 

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