FAO joins GFSA event celebrating Saudi Arabia's 16% drop in food loss and waste

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Programme Director in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Nizar Haddad was a keynote speaker in the celebration event of the General Food Security Authority (GFSA) event held on 29 September 2025, to launch the National Platform for Reducing Food Loss and Waste, in conjunction with the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste. During the event, it was announced that the Kingdom's has achieved a 16% reduction in food loss and waste since 2019, in response to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3's, which aims to reduce food loss and waste by 50% by 2030. 

Dr. Nizar highlighted in his speech that this important achievement reflects Saudi Arabia’s innovative policies and commitment. FAO is committed to providing technical assistance and supporting governmental efforts in Saudi Arabia to reduce food loss and waste across the agrifood system.

The gathering united stakeholders from government, international bodies, and the private sector to advance food security and sustainability, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. FAO's engagement reinforces its support through technical assistance, policy development, and awareness initiatives.

The President of the General Food Security Authority (GFSA), His Excellency Eng. Ahmad Al-Fares highlighted that, "We have achieved measurable progress with the 16% reduction in food loss and waste. This milestone has been made possible through nationwide awareness efforts, strategic partnerships, and ambitious reduction initiatives, reflecting the commitment of the General Food Security Authority and our society to a sustainable future in line with the National Transformation Programme under Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals. Our ambition is to position the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a leading country globally in resource sustainability and food system resilience."

Amid regional undernutrition affecting 66 million people, this progress addresses challenges like climate change and supply disruptions. Saudi Arabia’s efforts to reduce food loss and waste is a national milestone that demonstrates the impact of collective action, innovation, and strong partnerships. The participation of the FAO Programme Director in Saudi Arabia at the event highlights the strong commitment to advancing national and global efforts to reduce food loss and waste. This collaboration underscores the importance of collective action, knowledge sharing, and innovation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to food security, nutrition, and sustainable consumption. FAO remains dedicated to supporting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its partners in strengthening policies, building capacities, and implementing solutions that contribute to a more efficient and resilient food system for all.