Fisheries, Aquaculture, Foreign Trade, Food Security, Saudi Arabia.

This study aims to provide an economic analysis of the fisheries and aquaculture sector in Saudi Arabia during the period 2018–2023, with a focus on domestic production indicators and foreign trade dynamics. The research relied on official data from the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and the General Authority for Statistics, applying time-series statistical tools such as trend analysis, Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI), and Trade Diversification Index (TDI). The results show that total marine catch remained relatively stable with a slight upward trend, while shrimp emerged as the most strategic product, recording an annual growth of about 11%. Inland aquaculture has become a cornerstone of food security, reaching 47,458 tons in 2023, although significant regional disparities in productivity were observed. On the trade side, marine imports grew at a CAGR of 3.9%, with diversified sources (Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Oman). Conversely, exports declined sharply at −9.2% per year, with a strong concentration in the Chinese market (≈49%). The study recommends improving aquaculture efficiency in low-performing regions, enhancing exports through value-added products and market diversification, and developing a Saudi national seafood brand aligned with Vision 2030 objectives on food security and sustainable development.