Nongshim Launches K-Smart Farm Project in Saudi Arabia
Nongshim, a leading Korean food and agri-tech company, has officially commenced construction of its pilot K-smart farm in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, aiming to create a strategic export hub for Korean agricultural technology in the Middle East. This initiative includes both a vertical farm and a high-tech glass greenhouse, occupying a total of 2,000 square meters, and is scheduled for completion by December 2025.
Technological Innovation Meets Localized Production
The farm will demonstrate cutting-edge K-smart technologies such as environmental control systems and agriculture-specific robotics. Crops will be adapted to local tastes: kale and leafy vegetables will be grown in the vertical farm, while cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers will be cultivated in the greenhouse. Nongshim is tailoring these crops to regional preferences for milder greens and sweet fruits.
Distribution Strategy and Market Integration
Produce will be sold through Saudi distribution networks initially, with expansion plans to major retailers such as Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket, as well as digital channels including Amazon and Noon. Nongshim’s Saudi partner will manage local distribution, while broader retail integration will strengthen brand visibility and consumer access.
Strategic Goals and Global Expansion
This project marks a key milestone following Nongshim’s 2022 export of container-type smart farms to Oman and its 2023 MOUs with Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Nongshim aims to scale K-smart farm technology across the region, positioning the Riyadh hub as a launchpad for a broader agri-tech ecosystem, including crop R&D, food processing, and export logistics.
With global food security and climate-resilient farming becoming urgent priorities, Nongshim’s expansion underscores Korea’s growing leadership in sustainable, high-efficiency agriculture.
Company Perspective: Nongshim Co., Ltd. is one of Korea’s top food manufacturers, renowned for its instant noodles, snacks, and now, smart agriculture initiatives. Its foray into agri-tech strengthens Korea’s food sovereignty narrative while opening new markets.
Latest Stats:
- Saudi Arabia imports over 80% of its food, creating high demand for localized agri-solutions.
- Korea’s agricultural technology exports reached $900M+ in 2024, with the Middle East a growing market.
- Top Korean agri-tech exporters include Nongshim, Farm8, and EZFarm.
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