Environment ministry conducts over 26,000 inspections to boost food supply sustainability

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture intensified its regulatory and field efforts in public markets across the Kingdom during the third quarter of 2026, with inspection teams conducting 26,118 visits in July, August, and September. The inspections aimed to verify the safety and quality of agricultural and animal products, raise compliance with regulations, and monitor the availability and stability of food supplies.

The inspections covered fruit and vegetable markets, livestock, meat, poultry, fish and bird markets, as well as farms, slaughterhouses, and related activities. Efforts focused on high-priority and higher-risk locations and activities, ensuring compliance with regulations governing handling, display, and sales, and monitoring practices affecting product safety and quality.

Inspection results

The ministry reported that in July 2026, 3,729 inspections were conducted, resulting in 335 violations and 571 warnings. In August, more than 12,220 inspections took place, while September saw 10,169 inspections involving 1,165 inspectors and covering around 17,857 establishments.

During the third quarter, the ministry prioritized strengthening oversight of agricultural and animal products, monitoring the safety of traded goods, and ensuring their availability and stable supply. Additional efforts focused on the safety of dates and date products, verifying their compliance with approved standards and requirements.

Self-sufficiency indicators and food security support

Field inspections showed an abundance of food products in markets and stable supply levels. Self-sufficiency rates reached 127% for dates, 120% for milk and dairy products, 105% for eggs, 82% for vegetables, 76% for poultry products, 69% for fish, 55% for red meat, 36% for fruits, and 25% for wheat.

These indicators reflect the development of the food security system and the ministry’s efforts to enhance local production capacity, strengthen strategic reserves of essential commodities, and improve supply chain readiness to ensure sustainable food availability and meet local demand.

Enhanced oversight and coordination with relevant authorities

The ministry continues to develop its oversight system by implementing risk-based inspections and directing resources toward priority activities, while also raising awareness and improving inspector readiness. It coordinates with other government agencies to boost regulatory efficiency and increase compliance with market and slaughterhouse regulations, helping protect beneficiaries and strengthen consumer confidence in local products.

The ministry affirmed that inspections and team readiness will continue to monitor public markets and related activities, supporting food security goals in line with Saudi Vision 2030.