FMCG sector in Saudi Arabia - statistics & facts
The FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) or Consumer Packed Goods (CPG) industry represents one of the largest industries worldwide. By 2025, the real total consumer spending on food was expected to reach around 8.85 trillion U.S. dollars. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Egypt had the highest total consumer spending on food and non-alcoholic beverages while Saudi Arabia ranked third. Up until recent years, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) enjoyed positive effects of profits and revenue in the FMCG sector. The market experienced strong GDP and high population growth. There was a light regulatory environment with subsidies aimed at selected industries and the absence of taxes, such as value-added tax (VAT). This helped create a period of low market competitiveness as many companies were experiencing acceptable growth and attractive margins.
