Middle East & Africa Seeds Market Outlook, 2030

The seed market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is undergoing significant growth, driven by the region's diverse agricultural demands and innovations. This market encompasses a wide range of crop seeds, including those for food, horticultural, and industrial uses, and it plays a crucial role in food security, economic growth, and sustainable agriculture. The regulatory landscape for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) remains highly selective, with only 5 out of 47 African countries currently approving GMO crop cultivation, including South Africa, Burkina Faso, Sudan, Egypt, and Nigeria. This cautious approach to biotechnology adoption reflects the complex interplay between agricultural innovation and regulatory oversight. In 2023, significant industry developments included Syngenta Seeds' collaboration with Ginkgo Bioworks for developing next-generation seed technology, demonstrating the industry's commitment to innovation. The establishment of BASF's first crop knowledge center in Kenya further exemplifies the growing focus on research and development in the region. Governments are making efforts to create a supportive environment for local seed companies by investing in research and development and building agricultural infrastructure to achieve self-sufficiency and significantly boost food security on a large scale. For instance, in 2023, Jordan managed to export seeds to 65 countries worldwide and witnessed an increase in the number of local seed companies from six in 2011 to thirty-six in the year 2023. This has been possible due to their favorable policies and commitment to developing the sector along with other Middle Eastern countries. Thus, attracting prominent seed manufacturing companies is bolstering the growth of Middle East and Africa seeds market. The COVID-19 pandemic had a notable impact on the agriculture industry, including the Middle East & and Africa Seed market. International and domestic movement restrictions disrupted the trade and distribution of seeds.

According to the research report ""Middle East and Africa Seeds Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Middle East and Africa Seeds market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 5.52 Billion by 2030.The rising population in this region is certainly raising the food insecurity concern, which is attributed to eventually leveling up the food supply chain process. Ensuring the moderately high-quality production of crops by focusing on high-quality seeds greatly influences the growth rate of the Middle East and African seed markets. Unfavorable seasons in most of the areas in this region are speculated in choosing high-quality seeds for smooth agriculture practices. Companies and agricultural experts in the region are leveraging data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and remote sensing technology to optimize seed selection and planting strategies. These technologies enable farmers to make more informed decisions about which seed varieties to use, improving overall crop yield and sustainability. For instance, the use of satellite imagery can help farmers monitor soil moisture levels, predict pest outbreaks, and identify the best planting times. Moreover, seed companies in both regions are focusing on creating seeds with traits that go beyond just higher yields. There is an increasing demand for seeds that are resistant to pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions, particularly in light of climate change. Research is also ongoing into seeds that can improve soil health, reduce the need for chemical inputs like pesticides and fertilizers, and promote more sustainable farming practices. The government banned forage cultivation in November 2018 due to limited water resources in Saudi Arabia. However, the demand for forage is high due to high livestock production. To cater to the increasing demand, manufacturers have developed some technologies to import forage from other countries. For instance, the National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC), one of the Middle Easts largest dairy producers, is using cloud-based technology to help it overcome the operational hurdles created by the ban. NADEC has started growing alfalfa and other crops for cattle feed in Sudan, Jordan, Lebanon, and other countries. The crops are harvested and then transported back to the company's homeland dairy farm in Saudi Arabia.

Market Drivers

• Urbanization and Shifts in Agricultural Land Use: Urbanization is rapidly growing across the Middle East and Africa, especially in countries like Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa. As more people move into cities, the demand for efficient, high-yielding crops that can meet the needs of urban populations is growing. Urbanization often leads to a reduction in arable land, meaning that the remaining farmland must be used more effectively. This shift encourages the use of improved seeds, such as hybrids and GMOs, to maximize crop yields on smaller plots of land. Vertical farming and other innovative farming techniques are becoming more common in urban areas, and they depend on seeds that are optimized for smaller, controlled environments.
• Regional Trade and Agricultural Export Opportunities: The MEA region is also increasingly participating in global agricultural trade, with countries like South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt being significant agricultural exporters. These countries are improving the quality and volume of their crops to meet international standards, and there is growing interest in seeds that can enhance the quality and competitiveness of their exports. This includes high-quality seeds that yield disease-free, uniform crops that meet the standards of export markets in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East itself. Additionally, intra-regional trade, such as trade agreements within the African Union (AU) and the Arab League, is increasing, boosting the demand for improved seeds that meet regional needs for enhanced agricultural productivity.

Market Challenges

• Pest and Disease Management: Agriculture in the MEA region is often impacted by pests and plant diseases, which can devastate crops and reduce yields. Insects, such as the desert locust, as well as fungal and bacterial diseases, pose significant threats to agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Seed companies are required to develop crops that are resistant to common pests and diseases in the region. For example, GM seeds engineered to resist pests like the corn borer or cotton bollworm are becoming increasingly important in regions like Egypt, South Africa, and parts of East Africa. However, the management of pests and diseases is not limited to genetically engineered solutions alone.
• Inadequate Infrastructure and Distribution Networks: In many parts of the MEA region, inadequate infrastructure—such as poor roads, insufficient storage facilities, and limited access to distribution channels—makes it difficult for farmers to access high-quality seeds. Seed distribution is often limited to urban centers, leaving rural farmers at a disadvantage when it comes to obtaining modern seeds. This is particularly problematic for smallholder farmers who lack the resources to purchase seeds from distant urban markets. Without reliable access to seeds and other agricultural inputs, smallholder farmers are unable to maximize their productivity. Overcoming infrastructure deficits and improving logistics networks is critical for ensuring that quality seeds reach even the most remote farming communities.

Market Trends

• Digitalization and Precision Agriculture: The adoption of digital technology and precision agriculture is increasingly gaining traction across the MEA region, especially in countries like South Africa and Morocco. Precision agriculture tools, such as satellite imagery, drones, sensors, and GPS technologies, are enabling farmers to make more informed decisions about seed selection, planting times, irrigation, and pest control. These technologies can help maximize the potential of high-quality seeds by optimizing growing conditions and improving yields. Seed companies are leveraging this trend by developing and offering digital platforms that provide farmers with tailored seed recommendations based on their specific farming conditions, such as soil type, weather patterns, and pest risks.
• Focus on Local Seed Systems and Seed Sovereignty: In several parts of Africa, particularly in East Africa and parts of West Africa, there is a growing movement toward revitalizing local seed systems and promoting seed sovereignty. This trend is driven by concerns over the dominance of multinational corporations in the seed market, particularly in relation to genetically modified seeds. Local seed systems prioritize traditional seed varieties that are well adapted to local conditions and culturally significant. There is increasing recognition of the need for farmers to have control over their own seed supply and the preservation of indigenous varieties that are resilient to local pests, diseases, and climatic conditions.

Genetically modified (GM) seeds are the fastest growing segment in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) seed industry due to their ability to significantly improve crop yields, reduce dependence on water, and enhance resilience to environmental stressors.

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is experiencing a rapidly growing demand for genetically modified (GM) seeds, a trend that is reshaping the agricultural landscape in these areas. Several factors contribute to the acceleration of GM seed adoption in the region, with one of the most critical reasons being the pressing need to boost agricultural productivity amidst harsh climatic conditions, scarce water resources, and growing populations. As climate change intensifies, the region faces increasing challenges related to drought, erratic rainfall patterns, and heat stress, all of which have a significant impact on crop yields. Genetically modified seeds offer solutions to many of these issues, making them highly attractive to farmers in the MEA. GM seeds are specifically engineered to withstand environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures, drought, and salinity. For example, drought-resistant crops are a game-changer in regions where water scarcity is a major concern, such as in parts of the Middle East and North Africa. By utilizing crops designed to thrive in low-water conditions, farmers can sustain or even increase their yields without needing to depend heavily on irrigation, which is often costly and unsustainable. This is particularly beneficial in countries with limited access to water resources, such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and several countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, these crops are often engineered to offer improved resistance to common agricultural challenges such as soil-borne diseases and pests, which are especially prevalent in tropical and subtropical climates. This resistance leads to higher success rates in growing staple crops like maize, soybeans, and cotton, thereby improving food availability and farmers’ livelihoods.

Oilseeds and pulses are rapidly growing in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) seed industry due to the increasing demand for these crops driven by changing dietary patterns, economic growth, and the need for more sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

The oilseeds and pulses crop segment is experiencing significant growth in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) seed industry, fueled by several factors linked to changing consumer demands, economic development, and the region's growing need for agricultural sustainability. As the MEA region’s population continues to grow and its middle class expands, there is a noticeable shift toward healthier and more diverse diets, leading to increased demand for crops like oilseeds (e.g., sunflower, canola, and soybeans) and pulses (such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans). These crops are not only essential for improving the nutritional content of local diets but also offer economic opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses across the region. Additionally, the rising importance of sustainability in agricultural practices is encouraging the growth of oilseeds and pulses, which are seen as vital crops for soil health and sustainable farming systems. Oilseeds and pulses play an important role in enhancing local food security, as they are key sources of protein and healthy fats, both of which are essential in a balanced diet. The growing preference for plant-based protein sources is particularly evident as consumers seek alternatives to animal-based proteins due to health concerns, environmental awareness, and rising meat prices. Oilseeds, such as sunflower and canola, provide high-quality oils, while pulses like lentils and chickpeas are excellent sources of protein, making them staples in many local cuisines and diets. The growing awareness of their nutritional benefits has spurred demand both within the region and internationally, making these crops increasingly important to food systems across MEA. In countries like Ethiopia, India, and Egypt, pulses are already an important agricultural commodity, and there is increasing interest in expanding their production to meet both domestic and export demand. These crops also offer a more cost-effective way for farmers to diversify their production systems, reducing the financial risks associated with monoculture farming.

The growth of herbicide-tolerant (HT) trait seeds in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) seed industry is driven by the need for efficient weed control, reduced labor costs, and increased crop yields.

The herbicide-tolerant (HT) trait is rapidly expanding within the Middle East and Africa (MEA) seed industry, and this growth can be largely attributed to the increasing demand for more efficient and cost-effective weed management solutions. Weeds are one of the primary challenges for farmers in the region, often competing with crops for water, nutrients, and sunlight. In regions with limited arable land and scarce water resources, controlling weeds without harming crops is essential for maximizing yields and ensuring food security. Herbicide-tolerant crops, which are genetically modified to withstand specific herbicides, offer a revolutionary solution by allowing farmers to apply herbicides that target weeds while leaving the crops unaffected, significantly reducing the need for manual weed control and enabling a more efficient and productive farming system. As countries across the MEA region strive to boost their agricultural productivity and self-sufficiency, herbicide-tolerant traits are seen as a way to enhance farm efficiency, reduce input costs, and increase the overall competitiveness of local farming. The efficiency of herbicide-tolerant crops also aligns with broader goals of sustainability in agriculture. Moreover, the global trend toward more sustainable agricultural practices has led to an increased focus on reducing the environmental footprint of farming. Herbicide-tolerant crops contribute to this goal by enabling no-till farming practices, which help improve soil health, reduce erosion, and conserve moisture. No-till farming is particularly advantageous in the MEA region, where water conservation is a growing concern. By reducing the need for tilling, which disrupts soil structure and consumes more water, herbicide-tolerant crops support sustainable farming practices that are vital for long-term agricultural success.

Saved seeds are growing in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) seed industry due to their cost-effectiveness, the need for self-sufficiency in farming, and the region’s cultural and historical preference for seed saving practices.

In a region where agriculture often faces economic challenges, such as fluctuating market prices, limited access to expensive commercial seed varieties, and financial constraints, saving seeds from one harvest to plant for the next is an important way for farmers to reduce input costs. For smallholder farmers, particularly those in rural areas with limited access to financial resources or seed suppliers, saved seeds are an affordable solution that ensures they can continue producing crops year after year without relying heavily on external inputs. This is especially important in regions where farmers may not have consistent access to seed markets or may face long distances to purchase certified seeds. Culturally, seed saving has deep roots in the agricultural practices of the MEA region. Many farmers in this area have a long history of saving seeds for the next planting season as part of their farming traditions. This practice is not only seen as a way to maintain self-sufficiency but also as a method to preserve local and indigenous crop varieties that are well-suited to the region’s diverse climates and conditions. Saved seeds allow farmers to cultivate traditional crops that are adapted to the specific environmental challenges they face, such as drought, heat, and soil salinity. These varieties are often more resilient and better suited to the local environment than commercial, hybrid seeds, which may not perform as well under the harsh conditions prevalent in much of the MEA region. By saving seeds, farmers maintain genetic diversity in their fields, which is essential for ensuring long-term food security and climate resilience. Saved seeds are a way to foster this independence, enabling farmers to maintain control over their production systems. In many parts of the MEA region, where agricultural systems are often subject to fluctuating global commodity prices and supply chain disruptions, saved seeds offer a reliable and locally controlled option for sustaining farming operations.

South Africa is leading the Middle East and Africa (MEA) seed industry due to its advanced agricultural infrastructure, strong research and development capabilities, and established position as a hub for seed production and export within the region.

South Africa’s advanced infrastructure allows for a wide variety of crops to be cultivated, including staple crops such as maize, wheat, soybeans, and vegetables, as well as high-value crops like sunflower, canola, and various fruits. These crops are not only important for local food security but also serve as a major export commodity, positioning South Africa as a key player in the regional seed market. South Africa’s strong research and development (R&D) capabilities play a critical role in its dominance within the MEA seed industry. The country has invested heavily in agricultural research, with world-class universities, research institutions, and private sector companies driving innovation in seed development. These efforts focus on improving crop yields, pest and disease resistance, drought tolerance, and overall agricultural productivity. South Africa’s research institutions collaborate with both local and international stakeholders, ensuring that the country remains at the cutting edge of seed technology and agricultural biotechnology. This focus on R&D has enabled South Africa to produce high-quality seeds that meet both regional and global standards, making them highly sought after by farmers across Africa and the Middle East. The introduction of genetically modified (GM) seeds, for example, has been a significant achievement, with South Africa being one of the first countries in the MEA region to approve and widely adopt GM crops like Bt cotton and genetically modified maize. Moreover, South Africa’s favorable climate and diverse agro-ecological zones make it an ideal location for seed production. The country’s range of climates, from semi-arid areas to more temperate regions, allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops throughout the year. This climatic diversity supports consistent seed production, making South Africa a reliable supplier of quality seeds. The country's seed production industry is not only geared toward domestic demand but is also a key exporter of seeds to neighboring countries and other regions of Africa.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Seeds Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Genetically Modified Seed
• Conventional Seed

By Crop Type
• Cereals & Grains
• Oilseeds & Pulses
• Fruits & Vegetables
• Others

By Availability
• Commercial Seeds
• Saved Seeds

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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