RIYADH — The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has confirmed the adoption of five key initiatives that have contributed to localizing Saudi Arabia’s poultry industry, enhancing the sector’s competitiveness, and increasing production efficiency. These efforts have raised broiler chicken production to approximately 1.4 million tons in 2026 and egg production to more than 9 billion eggs, achieving self-sufficiency rates of 80 percent for poultry meat and 100 percent for table eggs. The announcement came at the conclusion of the Middle East Poultry Expo 2026, held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center from October 4 to 6. The event supports the ministry’s efforts to develop the poultry sector, strengthen private sector participation in achieving food security, and enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of national products, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The fifth edition of the expo also saw the launch of the 2026 Poultry Excellence Award, which honors pioneers, establishments, and outstanding partners in the sector across five main categories: pioneer recognition; excellence in social responsibility and cooperative work; impactful international partnerships; leadership in biosecurity; and excellence in production and processing. The exhibition has witnessed significant growth in participation since its launch in 2022, with the number of exhibitors increasing from 140 companies representing 30 countries to more than 400 companies and entities from 45 countries in the 2026 edition. The event included the participation of 29 Turkish companies, with Türkiye serving as the guest of honor, and more than 60 Chinese companies. Its business matchmaking program recorded more than 400 scheduled meetings, reflecting growing investment opportunities and partnerships in the Kingdom’s poultry sector.