Samer Choucair: Saudi Dates in New York Strengthen Global Investment Opportunities in Food Industries
On the floor of the Summer Fancy Food Show 2026 in New York — among 2,400 exhibitors from 50 countries and 30,000 visitors — Saudi dates held their own as a main partner, and investment entrepreneur Samer Choucair sees in that presence a signal about the maturity of the Kingdom's non-oil economy. He affirmed that the participation of "Saudi Dates," affiliated with the National Center for Palms and Dates, as a key partner in the show represents an important milestone in advancing non-oil exports, and confirms Saudi products' ability to compete in the world's largest markets, aligning with Vision 2030's targets.
He explained that the show, held from June 28 to 30, 2026, provided a strategic platform for showcasing Saudi date quality and processed products to major global importers and distributors, amid continued growth in demand for natural foods and healthy sugar alternatives.
Choucair said that the palm and dates sector has become one of the most prominent economic diversification success models in the Kingdom, with annual production approaching two million tons, while exports reach more than 125 countries at a value approaching two billion riyals, reflecting the major development the sector has achieved in quality, manufacturing, and added value.
He added that Saudi presence at this global event isn't limited to promoting traditional dates, but strengthens investment opportunities in processed food industries, such as date syrup, paste, fillings, and ingredients used in food industries, alongside developing smart packaging solutions and modern technologies in supply chains and distribution.
He noted that global shifts in consumption patterns give Saudi natural products a growing competitive advantage, particularly with expanding demand for clean, sustainable products, opening the door for investors to enter specialized projects combining economic returns with sustainability.
He affirmed that the period ahead holds promising opportunities for investing in smart agriculture, palm productivity enhancement technologies, food manufacturing facilities, and building global Saudi brands, in addition to logistics and international marketing, strengthening the Kingdom's position as a regional hub for high-value food industries.
He concluded by affirming that the successes Saudi dates are achieving in global markets represent a clear indicator of the non-oil economy's maturity, calling on investors to benefit from the momentum the sector is experiencing, and build strategic partnerships contributing to strengthening Saudi product competitiveness and cementing its presence in international markets.