Key SFDA requirements, certification steps, and compliance insights for exporters.
Saudi Arabia relies on imports for up to 70% of its food needs, with a market valued at over $22.5 billion, making it one of the most attractive destinations for global exporters.
India plays a leading role, supplying key commodities such as rice, meat, spices, and agricultural products. In fact, India dominates rice exports to the Kingdom, accounting for over 75% of total imports, valued at more than $1.5 billion annually.
However, access to this market depends on strict compliance with Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) regulations. Without proper certification, exporters risk shipment delays, rejections, and lost business.
High-Demand Indian Food Exports to Saudi Arabia
India exports a wide range of food products to Saudi Arabia, many of which fall under strict SFDA control:
- Rice (from SFDA-approved establishments)
- Meat products (sheep and buffalo from approved facilities)
- Sesame and sesame-based products
- Processed fruits and vegetables
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Spices and agricultural crops
- Honey
These product categories are essential to Saudi Arabia’s food supply chain but also among the most regulated.
Understanding SFDA Food Technical Requirements
To successfully export to Saudi Arabia, Indian exporters must comply with detailed SFDA technical and procedural requirements, which include:
- Mandatory shipment inspection
- Commercial invoice
- Products artworks (to review labels requirements as per SFAD.GSO9)
- Product registration on importers Ghad platform.
Product testing shall be carried out in line with SFDA test parameters, as per the relevant food categories.
Pesticide Compliance (SFDA.FD 382)
Exporters must comply with the SFDA regulation on Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs).
Requirements include:
- A valid test report confirming pesticide levels
- A Certificate of Conformity verifying that:
- Products are pesticide-free, or
- Within acceptable limits
Non-compliance in this area is one of the leading causes of shipment rejection.
Approved Establishments
Certain product categories require origin facilities to be approved by the SFDA:
- Meat, Honey, Rice & and poultry products must come from approved establishments
This ensures traceability, quality control, and regulatory confidence.
Required Certification Documents
Depending on the product, exporters must obtain:
- ✅ Health Certificate (for food of animal and plant origin)
- ✅ Phytosanitary Certificate (for fresh produce, grains, and crops)
These documents confirm compliance with both food safety and agricultural standards.
Partnering with an experienced certification provider like Cotecna allows exporters to:
- Simplify compliance
- Reduce risk
- Accelerate market access
- Focus on growth
With the right support, compliance becomes a competitive advantage.
Cotecna helps exporters navigate SFDA requirements with confidence ensuring smoother trade and faster market access.
To find out more about the SFDA Food Programme, download our free SFDA food Exporter guide or contact us for more information
About Cotecna
For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.