Saudi investors eye joint ventures in Pakistan’s snack food sector

Saudi entrepreneurs are showing growing interest in joint ventures with Pakistani partners in the snack food industry, according to Shahid Imran, convener of the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (FPCCI) regional food committee.

Leading a Pakistani delegation in Jeddah, Imran said recent meetings with Saudi counterparts highlighted strong demand for innovative and high-quality snack products. “Saudi investors want co-branding, technology transfer, and halal certification. They know Pakistani snacks are affordable, tasty, and crafted with expertise,” he noted.

The delegation showcased traditional items such as nimco, roasted chickpeas, and spicy mixtures alongside modern offerings like flavored chips, biscuits, cookies, and energy bars. Exporters argued that these products align well with changing consumer preferences in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia’s food and beverage market is projected to reach $57.4 billion in 2025, growing at around 4% annually, according to Statista. Bread and cereals will be the largest category, but rising urbanisation, a young population, and the Vision 2030 push for tourism and hospitality are driving demand for convenience foods and packaged snacks.

Pakistani food exporters are confident they can offer items that meet both traditional tastes and modern health trends, like baked alternatives, organic bars, and low-fat chips. Furthermore, the partnership could help establish local processing units and improve packaging and certification to meet Saudi regulatory standards.

Pakistan’s food exports stand at $7.1 billion in FY25, but snacks remain a small fraction of this total. Economists warn that competing in Saudi Arabia’s snack market, already dominated by multinational brands, will require significant investment. According to experts, without strong branding, packaging, certifications, and marketing tailored to Gulf consumers, carving out market share will be very challenging.

Despite these hurdles, industry leaders remain cautiously optimistic. They argue Pakistan’s strengths, which are affordability, authenticity, and halal assurance, resonate with Gulf consumers and could help build a foothold in the competitive sector.

Experts believe that successful cooperation in snacks could pave the way for ventures in dairy, beverages, and processed meats, expanding bilateral food trade.