SFDA Hosts International Workshop in Collaboration with the Codex Alimentarius Commission in Riyadh

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is hosting an international Codex Alimentarius Workshop at its headquarters in Riyadh. Held from January 20 to 22, 2026, under the theme “one Codex: Together We Learn, Together We Lead,” the event brings together the world’s foremost experts in food safety and regulation.

The workshop was inaugurated in the presence of H.E. Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, CEO of the SFDA, with the participation of the Chairperson of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) and his Vice-Chairs. High-level attendees include the former Chairperson of the CAC, Codex regional coordinators, the Codex Secretariat, and representatives from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

In his opening remarks, Dr. Aljadhey stated: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the SFDA, places great importance on participating in the activities of the Codex Alimentarius. Driven by our commitment to promote public health, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places human health and quality of life at the core of its priorities.”

“The gathering of Codex leaders in this workshop,” Dr. Aljadhey added, “represents a platform for exchanging expertise and knowledge, and exploring opportunities for innovation—including the application of Artificial Intelligence in the development of food standards. It also provides an opportunity to shape the future direction of Codex standards, ensuring they remain responsive to developments in the food industry and modern technologies, while enabling early and effective responses to emerging risks.”

Mr. Allan Azegele, Chairperson of the CAC, said, “Allow me to express our sincere appreciation to Saudi Arabia, represented by the SFDA, for hosting and supporting the organization of this important workshop.” He stressed the Importance of collective leadership in protecting consumer health and ensuring fair practices in the food trade, noting that the workshop represents a valuable opportunity for joint learning and capacity building.

The three-day event serves as a platform for capacity building and the exchange of global expertise. A key highlight of the agenda is the exploration of AI to enhance the efficiency of the CAC’s work. Through interactive sessions and specialized presentations, the workshop reflects the Commission’s leading role in establishing international food standards.

Established in 1963, the CAC is a joint body of the FAO and the WHO. With 189 member states, it is the preeminent international authority for developing food standards and guidelines to protect consumer health and ensure equitable trade. Saudi Arabia continues to play a pivotal role in the CAC; since its election in 2024, the Kingdom has served as the Vice-Chair of the Commission and remains an active member of the Codex Executive Committee.