In a strategic move to align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which focuses on economic diversification and food security, the Agricultural Growth and Processing Company (AGPC), a division of Americana Holding, has embarked on a $100 million investment to build a cutting-edge Frozen French Fries production facility in Sudair Industrial and Business City. The announcement comes as part of a long-standing partnership with Farm Frites, a global leader in potato farming and frozen French fry production, with whom AGPC has collaborated successfully for over 30 years in Egypt.
Groundbreaking Milestone in Saudi Arabia
The official groundbreaking ceremony, held on November 25, 2024, marks the start of construction for the new facility. This project has been made possible thanks to the strong support and collaboration with key Saudi government bodies, including the Ministry of Investment, Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, and the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON). This cooperation is integral to the realization of AGPC’s goal of increasing domestic food production and supporting local farmers and potato growers in Saudi Arabia.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Economic Vision
The new plant, which spans over 100,000 square meters, is designed to produce high-quality frozen French fries and other potato products using the latest machinery and technology. It will begin operations with a total annual production capacity of 70,000 metric tons in the first phase, scheduled to be completed by Q1 2026. The plant’s production capacity will position AGPC and Farm Frites as the largest producers of frozen French fries in the MENA region, expanding their market reach and contributing significantly to the local economy.
This new investment is not just about production; it is also about creating jobs. By building this facility in Saudi Arabia, AGPC and Farm Frites aim to employ local workers and empower the Saudi agricultural industry, which plays a crucial role in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. As part of their commitment to advancing food security, this project will help reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on imported frozen potato products, offering a steady supply of locally-produced, high-quality products.
Strengthening the Partnership
The partnership between Americana and Farm Frites has been one of mutual growth, and it continues to thrive as the two companies extend their reach in the MENA region. Piet de Bruijne, the Owner and Chairman of Farm Frites, emphasized that Saudi Arabia is the fifth-largest market for Farm Frites globally, underlining the importance of the Kingdom as a key player in the company’s growth strategy.
“This collaboration is a significant milestone,” de Bruijne stated. “Together, we aim to enhance the industry’s capacity, from agriculture to logistics, and deliver top-tier products to our customers. Saudi Arabia’s commitment to economic diversification and its evolving food security strategy is the perfect environment for us to grow.”
Paving the Way for Future Growth
Once fully operational, the new factory will not only increase output but also serve as a model for innovation and sustainability in the region’s agricultural and food processing sectors. With plans for further expansion, this project will contribute to the diversification of Saudi Arabia’s agricultural industry, providing both an economic and a logistical boost.
Mohamed Ali Rashid Alabbar, Chairman of Americana, emphasized the importance of the new facility in supporting the country’s food security and agricultural initiatives. “We are proud to contribute to KSA’s Vision 2030 and increase local production, helping meet the growing demand for high-quality, locally produced frozen potato products.”
The new frozen French fries facility in Sudair Industrial and Business City represents a major step in the ongoing development of Saudi Arabia’s food industry. By investing in state-of-the-art technology and expanding local production capacity, Americana and Farm Frites are not only strengthening their market position but also supporting the Kingdom’s vision for economic diversification and food security. This collaboration serves as a prime example of how strategic investments in the agricultural sector can drive both regional growth and sustainable development, offering long-term benefits to local farmers, consumers, and businesses alike.
