Coffee and chocolate sales have trebled in the Arab world in the past decade, with consumption having increased by 100% in Saudi Arabia alone in the past three years. According to economist Hajar Al-Fadl, Saudis now spend more than five billion riyals (US$1.33 billion) on coffee each year.
“The Kingdom has achieved a huge growth in coffee sales with 25% annual growth each year from 2011 to 2014, making it the fastest-growing coffee market in the world,” Al-Fadl said.
The figures were revealed ahead of the 2nd International Coffee and Chocolate Exhibition, which takes place at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center from 26-28 November, 2015.
Last year’s exhibition attracted 120 exhibitors and over 25,000 visitors, with organizers Heights Agency predicting this year’s event will be even bigger with new features, including the introduction of the national Barista championships.
“The event is one of the most significant coffee and chocolate events in the Arab world, and provides an integrated platform to highlight all aspects of the two products,” said Mohammed Al-Afees, Chairman of the Organising Committee. “This year we are adding a number of interactive workshops and training programs for participants, as well as the national Barista championships to celebrate masters of the art of coffee preparation.”
Al-Afees said prominent coffee and chocolate experts from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Arab world and internationally will attend the three-day event, which offers significant investment and partnership opportunities, as well as an introduction to the Saudi market.
“The event is held in line with the active commercial movement in the Arab and Gulf markets regarding the two commodities, where the Kingdom is considered one of the leading coffee producers in the region and one of the most consuming countries in this area,” he said.
