The countries of South-West Asia (Middle East), despite significant differences in the level of development of their economy, belong to the group of developing countries.

The population growth rate in the countries of Southwest Asia is the highest in Asia and is 2.8% per year. The highest population growth rates are observed in agricultural countries - 3.5-4.5% per year.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East. The International Monetary Fund has declared Saudi Arabia the fastest growing economy in the world with non-oil growth of 7.2% and per capita income of $33,500, ranked 6th in the world in terms of macroeconomic stability.

Agriculture in Saudi Arabia is actively developing. About $53 billion is attracted annually to the country's agro-industrial complex. investments. Significant progress has been driven by a number of national programmes and support measures, including the $800 million Food Security Initiative. Food imports amount to $14.2 billion per year. Due to population growth, consumption will grow to $70 billion per year.

Exports of Russian agricultural products to Saudi Arabia in 2022 increased by 49.9% and approached $1 billion. Saudi Arabia is the largest buyer of Russian barley and wheat. Also, the Saudis are no less in demand for the supply of poultry meat, lamb, beef, fish and dairy products, confectionery, honey and much more.

The Saudi government has lifted all entry restrictions for foreign tourists. The exception applies to passengers who have been in Iran for the last 14 days - they are prohibited from entering.
Quarantine requirements have also been completely abolished.

The information is current as of 04/26/2023