Saudi Arabia, represented by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), was re-elected as Vice-President of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CODEX) during the 49th session of the commission held in Geneva, Switzerland. The term will continue until the end of the next regular session (the 50th session) scheduled for 2027.

This election reflects international confidence in the Kingdom's growing role in supporting the work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, its contributions to the development of science-based international food standards, fostering consensus among member states, and participating in capacity building through training programs and joint workshops targeting member states and observers.

Developing food standards

The CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Hisham bin Saad Al-Jad'ei, expressed pride in the Kingdom's re-election to this position, affirming that it reflects the support and empowerment from the wise leadership and underscores the Kingdom's international standing in the fields of food safety and public health.

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He noted that the Kingdom will continue to support the work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission and its strategic plan for 2026–2031, and will actively contribute to the development of international food standards in line with scientific developments, enhancing food safety, protecting consumer health, and supporting the sustainability of food supply chains and international trade. The position is held by Khalid bin Saud Al-Zahrani, who was elected in 2024 and re-elected as Vice-President of the Codex Alimentarius Commission in 2025. He participates in supporting the work of the Commission and its various committees, enhancing the Kingdom's presence and contribution to shaping international food policies and standards.

Codex Alimentarius Commission

The Codex Alimentarius Commission (CODEX), established in 1963, is the international body responsible for setting food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice concerning food safety and quality. It includes 189 member countries. It operates under the auspices of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The Kingdom joined in 1968 and currently holds the position of Vice-President of the Commission, in addition to its membership in the Executive Committee of the Codex Alimentarius Commission.