September 16, 2014
EU to export 610,000 tonnes of wheat to Saudi Arabia
In a tender for shipment periods between December 1 and January 30, Saudi Arabia will receive 610,000 tonnes of wheat imports from the EU.
According to Grain Silos and Flour Mills Organisation (GSFMO), the accepted origins are the EU, North and South America, and Australia at the sellers' option.
GSFMO's director general, Waleed Elkhereiji, said that shipments will be delivered in 10 consignments, with 310,000 tonnes for shipment to the port of Jeddah and 300,000 tonnes for Dammam.
Saudi Arabia, which plans to gradually reduce local agriculture and become completely reliant on imports by 2016, has emerged as a major importer of hard and soft wheat.
The country has abandoned plans for self-sufficiency in wheat during 2008 as farming in the desert strained water supplies.