SFDA CEO Leads Delegation at 7th Annual International Heads of Food Agencies Forum (IHFAF)

The CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), H.E. Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, headed the Authority’s delegation at the 7th Annual Meeting of the International Heads of Food Agencies Forum (IHFAF), held in Auckland, New Zealand. The meeting brought together heads of global food regulatory authorities and senior representatives from the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC).

During a keynote session titled "Trust in Times of Uncertainty," Dr. Aljadhey stressed the need to reshape trust-building methodologies to enhance food safety and the sustainability of supply chains in light of the accelerating challenges facing the sector globally. He emphasized that achieving this is a strategic priority that requires effective international integration, driven by decisions based on scientific evidence and continuous transparency in communication.

The SFDA CEO reviewed a number of practices that improve the accuracy of regulatory decisions, thereby reducing risks and enhancing the continuity of food supplies. He also pointed to the SFDA's efforts in promoting transparency and integration, which raise system readiness and protect food safety through more reliable supply chains. He explained that the shift from reactive response to proactive action enhances preparedness and reduces risks, citing Saudi Arabia's efficient experience in dealing with global supply chain and food safety challenges. He further stressed that trust is measured through tangible impact and results.

The 7th IHFAF meetinga agenda included sessions and activities aimed at exchanging ideas and discussing strategic topics related to food safety standards, identifying emerging food safety risks, and strengthening stakeholder collaboration. Furthermore, participants addressed the global challenge of food-related misinformation, exploring mechanisms to counter its spread and other critical industry topics.

The IHFAF is a global initiative dedicated to unifying efforts to enhance food safety and quality. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia played a foundational role in the forum’s establishment, with the SFDA serving as a founding member and performing the duties of its permanent secretariat. Riyadh’s hosting of the inaugural IHFAF meeting in 2020 reflects the Kingdom’s leading role in the international regulatory landscape.