Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s sweets and chocolate market is witnessing a notable uptick in activity in the lead-up to Eid Al-Fitr, as consumer demand for a wide variety of festive treats continues to grow.

Local and imported products are in high demand, with promotional offers boosting sales and attracting more buyers.

According to the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), the Kingdom imported more than 123 million kilograms of chocolate in 2024.

The top countries exporting chocolate to Saudi Arabia include the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey, offering consumers a diverse range of options to suit different tastes.

Shops across the Kingdom are showcasing a wide selection of imported and locally produced sweets and chocolates, with many consumers purchasing in bulk as part of Eid celebrations.

Retailers are also focused on offering the latest designs and premium assortments to cater to varying preferences.

Product origin, quality of packaging, and presentation dishes all influence pricing.

Local sweets range between SR30 and SR150 per kilogram, including flavored confections, toffee, biscuits, and various types of chocolate.

Prices remain stable thanks to high production volume and relatively low manufacturing costs.

Imported products, especially from European and Asian countries, tend to be more expensive. The price of premium filled or dark chocolate can reach up to SR300 per kilogram.