BRF and HPDC Announce Creation of Halal Food Innovation Center in Jeddah
In a strategic move to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a global halal hub, BRF, one of the world’s largest food companies, and the Halal Products Development Company (HPDC), a wholly owned Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, announced the creation of a Halal Food Innovation Center at BRF’s new processed food plant in Jeddah.
The Innovation Center will focus on cutting-edge research, technology, and workforce development, tailored to meet the demands of the Middle Eastern halal food market. Designed as a state-of-the-art laboratory complex, the facility will feature a Physicochemical Laboratory to ensure technical accuracy and compliance with food specifications, a Microbiological Laboratory to safeguard food safety and biosafety standards, and a Sensory Laboratory to evaluate flavour, aroma, texture, and appearance in line with local consumer preferences.
BRF Arabia CEO Marquinhos Molina emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative: “The investment in establishing an Innovation Center in Jeddah is a strategic step in consolidating our local presence in Saudi Arabia. The integration of research, cutting-edge technology, and local talent enables us to increase operational efficiency and better adapt to the specific needs of local consumers.”
The center is part of the companies’ broader plan to boost local halal food production while creating opportunities for Saudi talent. The Jeddah plant is expected to generate over 500 direct jobs, with specialised professionals leading innovation, safety, and quality assurance standards in line with national workforce development priorities.
HPDC CEO Fahad Alnuhait highlighted the wider significance of the project: “The Innovation Center marks a significant step forward in HPDC’s mission to build a world-class halal ecosystem and position the Kingdom as a global halal hub. It underscores our commitment to strengthening local manufacturing capabilities, promoting self-sufficiency, and creating high-value job opportunities aligned with Vision 2030.”
The Jeddah processed food plant, first announced in April this year, represents an investment of USD 160 million in its initial phase, with a projected annual production capacity of 40,000 tons of halal processed foods. Operations are scheduled to commence in mid-2026. While its primary focus will be serving the Saudi market, the plant also has the potential to expand exports to regional markets.
Expanding BRF’s Middle East Footprint
BRF, owner of globally recognised brands including Sadia, Perdigão, Qualy, and Banvit, has operated in the Middle East for over 50 years and exports to more than 14 regional markets. Through BRF Arabia, its joint venture with HPDC formed in 2023, the company has deepened its investment in Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, BRF Arabia acquired a 26% stake in Addoha Poultry Company, entering the halal poultry production sector and beginning local production of Sadia-branded products.
HPDC, created in October 2022 under the PIF, is tasked with driving Saudi Arabia’s food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics halal sectors, positioning the Kingdom as a leader in halal innovation and exports. The collaboration with BRF accelerates this goal, leveraging international expertise while strengthening domestic food security and economic diversification.
With the launch of the Halal Food Innovation Center, Saudi Arabia takes another step toward realising Vision 2030’s objectives of transforming the Kingdom into a global halal industry hub, fostering self-sufficiency, and exporting high-quality halal products to the world.
