Middle East and Africa Hemp Milk Market Report

Middle East and Africa Hemp Milk Market Size

The Middle East and Africa hemp milk market size was calculated to be USD 19.70 million in 2024 and is anticipated to be worth USD 57.78 million by 2033, from USD 22.21 million in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 12.69% during the forecast period.

Hemp Milk refers to the plant-based dairy alternatives derived from food-grade Cannabis sativa seeds cultivated or imported for human consumption under non-psychoactive thresholds, specifically, containing less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Despite limited domestic production, interest in hemp milk is growing across select urban centers where rising health consciousness, dietary diversification, and environmental concerns are reshaping consumer behavior. Unlike traditional dairy, hemp milk offers a sustainable, allergen-free option rich in complete proteins, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential minerals such as magnesium and iron. Its cultivation requires significantly less water than conventional livestock farming. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification reports that a significant portion of land in the Middle East and North Africa is affected by desertification , intensifying the need for regenerative crops like industrial hemp, which improves soil structure through deep-rooted growth and phytoremediation. In South Africa, limited pilot cultivation has begun under strict regulatory oversight, with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development permitting research-scale hemp farms focused on seed and fiber use. Similarly, the United Arab Emirates has established free-zone frameworks allowing import and formulation of compliant hemp-derived products for niche wellness sector. These ecological imperatives, combined with increasing expatriate demand and digital access to global nutrition trends, are laying the groundwork for cautious but strategic market development.

MARKET DRIVER

Escalating Prevalence of Lactose Intolerance and Dairy-Related Health Conditions

The exceptionally high prevalence of lactose intolerance, which affects a dominant proportion of adult populations in both regions, is a primary driver fueling interest in hemp milk across the Middle East and Africa. According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 80–100% of individuals in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East exhibit some degree of lactase deficiency , rendering them unable to digest lactose effectively—a condition that often leads to bloating, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal discomfort after dairy consumption. This biological predisposition has historically limited fresh milk intake and created a natural opening for non-dairy alternatives. In countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Nigeria, where traditional diets include fermented dairy such as laban or nono , there is growing awareness of inflammatory responses linked to casein and whey proteins. As healthcare systems in nations like South Africa and the UAE expand preventive care programs, medical professionals are increasingly advising plant-based substitutes for patients managing metabolic syndrome, acne, and autoimmune disorders. Furthermore, rising rates of type 2 diabetes, impacting millions of adults in the MENA region, have amplified demand for low-glycemic, unsweetened beverages. Hemp milk, free from cholesterol, lactose, and common allergens, aligns with these therapeutic dietary shifts, positioning it not merely as a lifestyle product but as a biologically compatible alternative rooted in genetic and physiological necessity.

Urbanization and Rising Demand for Functional, Premium Wellness Products

Rapid urbanization and the expansion of affluent, health-conscious consumer segments in major metropolitan hubs is another pivotal factor propelling the nascent adoption of hemp milk in the Middle East and Africa. Within these urban centers, a growing middle and upper class, particularly among younger demographics and expatriates, is embracing functional nutrition, clean-label ingredients, and sustainable lifestyles influenced by global wellness movements. In the UAE, there is strong demand for familiar plant-based options previously consumed abroad. Retailers such as Waitrose in Dubai and Woolworths in South Africa have introduced hemp milk in premium health food sections, catering to consumers seeking anti-inflammatory, heart-healthy, and environmentally responsible choices. Additionally, fitness studios, vegan cafes, and boutique wellness clinics in Cape Town and Riyadh are incorporating hemp milk into smoothies, protein shakes, and detox menus. This convergence of urban affluence, digital connectivity, and cross-cultural exposure is transforming hemp milk from an exotic import into a symbol of modern, informed living, particularly among digitally engaged Millennials and Gen Z consumers who prioritize transparency, performance, and planetary impact.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Stringent Legal Frameworks and Cannabis-Related Stigma Across Jurisdictions

The pervasive legal prohibition and social stigma associated with any form of cannabis, regardless of its THC content is one of the most significant impediments to the development of the Middle East and Africa hemp milk market. Despite international recognition of industrial hemp as a distinct, non-intoxicating crop, most countries in the region maintain blanket narcotics laws that do not differentiate between psychoactive marijuana and food-grade hemp. In Saudi Arabia, possession of any cannabis material, even trace amounts, carries severe penalties, including imprisonment and deportation, deterring importers and retailers. Similarly, in Egypt and Algeria, hemp cultivation remains illegal under national drug control statutes, despite successful pilot projects elsewhere. Even in more progressive jurisdictions like South Africa, where the Constitutional Court decriminalized private cannabis use in 2018, commercial sale of hemp food products remains unregulated, creating uncertainty for investors. Public perception further complicates acceptance. This misinformation discourages trial and limits media coverage. Without harmonized legal reforms, public education campaigns, and alignment with Codex Alimentarius standards for hemp seed safety, regulatory and perceptual barriers will continue to suppress market formation and discourage legitimate commercial entry.

Absence of Domestic Cultivation Infrastructure and Seed Supply Chains

The near-total absence of agricultural infrastructure dedicated to food-grade industrial hemp cultivation is a critical operational barrier hindering the scalability of hemp milk in the Middle East and Africa. While certain regions possess climatic suitability, such as the temperate highlands of Ethiopia or the semi-arid zones of Namibia, there are currently no large-scale, certified farming initiatives producing hemp seeds for human consumption. Most attempts remain confined to small research plots or illicit cultivation without quality control. This scarcity forces reliance on imported raw materials from Canada, Europe, or China, significantly increasing costs and logistical complexity. Moreover, post-harvest processing facilities capable of cold-dehulling, lipid stabilization, and microbiological testing are virtually nonexistent, leading to nutrient degradation during storage and transport. The absence of seed banks, breeding programs, and extension services leaves potential farmers without technical guidance or access to high-yield, low-THC cultivars. As a result, consistent supply of safe, uniform, contaminant-free hemp seed meal, the base ingredient for milk production, remains unattainable. Until coordinated investment in agronomic research, regulatory clarity, and value-chain development occurs, the region will remain dependent on foreign inputs, constraining affordability, availability, and long-term viability of hemp milk despite growing consumer interest.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Integration into Private Healthcare and Chronic Disease Management Programs

Its potential integration into private healthcare systems and chronic disease management protocols, particularly in countries with expanding medical infrastructure and rising burdens of diet-related illnesses is a transformative opportunity for hemp milk in the Middle East and Africa. With cardiovascular diseases accounting for over 11% of all deaths in the WHO African Region , according to the World Health Organization, and hypertension affecting one in three adults in Gulf Cooperation Council nations , there is growing emphasis on preventive nutrition. Hemp milk, rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, has been clinically associated with reduced arterial stiffness and improved lipid profiles. In South Africa, private health networks like Discovery Health are introducing nutritional coaching modules that promote plant-based alternatives for clients with metabolic syndrome. Similarly, wellness centers in Dubai are incorporating hemp milk into cardiac rehabilitation diets due to its zero cholesterol and balanced fatty acid profile. By partnering with physicians, dietitians, and insurance-linked wellness programs, hemp milk brands can transition from luxury imports to medically endorsed solutions, gaining credibility and accessing institutional procurement channels. This shift would anchor demand in clinical outcomes rather than transient trends, fostering sustainable growth grounded in public health relevance.

Development of Locally Inspired Plant-Based Blends for Regional Palates

The formulation of culturally adapted hemp milk variants tailored to local culinary traditions and flavor preferences across the Middle East and Africa is an emerging avenue for market expansion. Rather than replicating Western-style vanilla or chocolate blends, brands can innovate with region-specific profiles such as rooibos-infused hemp milk in South Africa, date-saffron in the Gulf, or baobab-hemp fusion in West Africa. In Morocco, the popularity of almond-milk-based amazigha suggests potential for nut-free hemp versions targeting lactose-intolerant consumers. Additionally, hemp milk can be adapted for use in traditional porridges, soups, and spiced beverages like kunun aya in Nigeria or sahlab in Lebanon, where its creamy texture complements complex spice blends. Culinary schools in Nairobi and Amman have begun experimenting with hemp milk in vegan renditions of injera batter and falafel sauces, demonstrating versatility beyond beverages. Collaborations with local chefs and food influencers can amplify authenticity and drive trial. By embedding hemp milk within existing gastronomic frameworks rather than positioning it as a foreign substitute, companies can reduce cultural resistance and foster organic adoption. This localization strategy enhances palatability, strengthens brand relevance, and transforms hemp milk from an imported novelty into an integrated component of regional food culture.

MARKET CHALLENGES

High Import Dependence and Logistical Vulnerabilities in Perishable Goods Handling

Its total dependence on imported finished products or raw ingredients, exposing supply chains to volatility, cost inflation, and cold-chain inefficiencies is a persistent challenge confronting the Middle East and Africa hemp milk market. Since no country in the region currently produces food-grade hemp seeds at scale, manufacturers must source dehulled flour, oil, or ready-to-formulate bases from North America or Europe. Once delivered, distribution faces additional hurdles: many countries lack reliable cold-storage infrastructure outside major cities, risking spoilage of perishable hemp milk. The World Bank Logistics Performance Index ranks several African nations below 2.8 out of 5 in cold-chain efficiency, compared to 4.2 in Europe. Inland transport often relies on intermittent refrigerated trucks or ambient delivery vans, compromising product integrity. Shelf life is further shortened by frequent power outages and inadequate retail refrigeration. These systemic weaknesses inflate retail prices, hemp milk in Lagos or Jeddah can cost two to three times more than locally produced soy or dairy milk , limiting accessibility. Until regional processing hubs emerge and temperature-controlled networks expand, import dependency will remain a structural constraint, undermining consistency, affordability, and consumer trust in a category already battling skepticism.

Limited Consumer Awareness and Misinformation About Nutritional Benefits

The profound lack of consumer understanding regarding the nutritional and environmental benefits of hemp milk, compounded by widespread misinformation is another formidable obstacle. Many potential buyers remain unaware that industrial hemp is legally distinct from recreational cannabis and contains negligible THC. Educational gaps are especially pronounced in rural areas and among older demographics, where digital access and scientific literacy are limited. Healthcare providers often lack training to recommend plant-based alternatives, leaving patients without professional guidance. Marketing efforts are further hampered by platform censorship, social media algorithms in several Gulf states flag terms like “hemp” as prohibited content, restricting digital outreach. There is also confusion about comparative nutrition; many assume soy or oat milk offer superior protein content, overlooking hemp’s status as a complete protein source. Overcoming this knowledge deficit requires sustained, multi-channel education involving trusted institutions, medical associations, and community influencers. Without deliberate awareness-building, hemp milk will struggle to move beyond expatriate enclaves and premium stores, remaining a misunderstood novelty rather than a mainstream dietary option.

REPORT COVERAGE

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

By Variants Insights

The flavored hemp milk segment led the Middle East and Africa (MEA) hemp milk market by capturing 60.3% of total sales volume in 2024. This dominance is primarily driven by sensory preferences deeply embedded in regional beverage culture, where sweetness and aromatic profiles are central to consumer acceptance. In Gulf countries and North Africa, traditional drinks such as qahwa , sahlab , and amar al-din are inherently sweetened and spiced, conditioning consumers to expect rich, indulgent flavors even in functional beverages. Flavored hemp milk, infused with vanilla, date, saffron, or cardamom, aligns seamlessly with these cultural norms, serving as a familiar entry point for first-time users transitioning from dairy or soy milk. Moreover, brands such as Mylko (imported via specialty distributors) have introduced Middle Eastern-inspired blends, enhancing local relevance. By integrating into existing consumption rituals, flavored hemp milk has become the preferred gateway for mainstream adoption in a region where taste familiarity dictates trial and loyalty.

The unflavored hemp milk segment is expanding at the fastest rate and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 15.4% between 2025 and 2033. This surge is fueled by increasing integration into clinical nutrition programs and professional culinary applications, particularly in private healthcare and high-end gastronomy. Unflavored hemp milk contains no added sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives, making it ideal for individuals managing diabetes, hypertension, or inflammatory conditions, prevalent health concerns across urban MEA populations. In South Africa, private hospitals like Netcare and Mediclinic are piloting plant-based dietary plans that include unflavored hemp milk due to its complete protein profile and heart-healthy fatty acids. Additionally, gourmet chefs in Cape Town and Tel Aviv are adopting unflavored hemp milk in savory preparations such as vegan béchamel, curries, and soups, leveraging its neutral base and emulsifying properties. As medical professionals and culinary innovators validate its utility, unflavored hemp milk is transitioning from niche product to functional ingredient, driving rapid growth beyond lifestyle markets.

By Categories Insights

The sweetened segment dominated the MEA hemp milk market by accounting for 59.4% of total value sales in 2024. Its lead position is because of deeply rooted cultural expectations around sweetness in beverages, particularly in the Gulf and North Africa, where sugared drinks are integral to social and religious traditions. In Saudi Arabia and Egypt, daily consumption of sweetened tea, coffee, and desserts is widespread, influencing preferences even in health-focused products. Sweetened hemp milk acts as a bridge for dairy migrants, offering a familiar taste while delivering plant-based benefits. Brands are responding by using natural sweeteners like date syrup and coconut nectar, culturally resonant ingredients that align with clean-label trends. By aligning with regional palates and utilizing locally symbolic ingredients, sweetened hemp milk maintains its stronghold as the preferred choice for initial adoption and habitual use.

The unsweetened hemp milk segment is witnessing the most rapid expansion and is growing at a CAGR of 15.2% from 2025 to 2033. This acceleration is driven by tightening public health regulations on sugar intake and rising awareness of diet-related chronic diseases. Several Gulf nations have implemented sugar taxes and front-of-pack labeling laws. In Israel, the Ministry of Health promotes reduced sugar consumption under its national nutrition strategy, influencing institutional procurement in hospitals and elderly care facilities. Additionally, nephrologists in South Africa and cardiologists in Jordan are recommending unsweetened hemp milk for patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease due to its minimal glycemic impact and absence of phosphorus additives. Wellness retreats in Morocco and fitness centers in Nairobi are incorporating unsweetened hemp milk into detox programs and keto meal plans. With digital health platforms tracking sugar intake and wearable devices monitoring blood glucose, consumers are becoming more vigilant, driving demand for minimalist, transparent formulations that support long-term metabolic health.

By Products Insights

The organic segment commanded a 54.6% of the MEA hemp milk market in 2024. Its dominance is sustained by affluent expatriate communities, wellness-focused urbanites, and premium retail positioning in countries like the UAE and South Africa. Organic certification ensures that hemp is cultivated without synthetic pesticides, GMOs, or chemical fertilizers, factors that resonate deeply with health-conscious buyers, particularly Western expats. Retailers such as Waitrose, Virgin Megastore, and Wellness Warehouse reserve prime shelf space exclusively for certified organic plant-based products, effectively excluding non-organic variants from high-traffic channels. Although domestic organic cultivation remains nonexistent, imported certified products from Europe and North America are perceived as safer and purer. Major brands like Plenish and Nush leverage organic credentials in marketing campaigns, linking product choice to environmental ethics and personal well-being.

The non-organic hemp milk segment is experiencing the highest growth trajectory and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 16.5% through 2033. This acceleration is driven by cost efficiency and emerging localized production initiatives aimed at reducing import dependency. Non-organic production avoids the compliance overhead of certification, allowing manufacturers to offer products at lower price points, a critical advantage in price-sensitive markets like Egypt, Kenya, and Sudan. Advancements in sustainable conventional farming are narrowing the ecological gap. Private-label expansion further fuels growth. Moreover, pilot cultivation projects in Ethiopia and South Africa are exploring non-organic seed production under controlled conditions, potentially enabling future domestic sourcing. As the market evolves beyond expatriate enclaves, non-organic hemp milk is emerging as the vehicle for democratizing access, balancing acceptable sustainability, functionality, and economic feasibility.

By Distribution Channel

The offline channel segment controlled 65.2% of MEA hemp milk sales in 2024, maintaining supremacy through established grocery networks and experiential purchasing behavior. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and health food stores remain the primary touchpoints, contributing significant share of offline volume, as consumers prefer physical inspection of packaging, refrigeration status, and expiration dates before purchase. Pharmacies and wellness chains like Boots and Life Pharmacy also play a vital role, positioning hemp milk alongside supplements, reinforcing its functional identity. Rural and peri-urban populations, where internet connectivity and digital payment systems remain underdeveloped, rely almost exclusively on physical retail. Retailers have invested heavily in dedicated “wellness aisles,”. Cold-chain reliability in physical stores further ensures product integrity, a concern in e-grocery logistics across tropical regions. These logistical, behavioral, and infrastructural advantages ensure that offline channels continue to dominate market reach and consumer engagement.

The online distribution channel segment is growing at the fastest pace and is recording a CAGR of 17.6% from 2025 to 2033 which is propelled by digital-native consumers, subscription services, and omnichannel integration. Millennials and Gen Z, who represent a significant share of online grocery spenders in urban MEA, favor the convenience of scheduled deliveries and personalized curation. Platforms like Noon, Takealot, and InstaShop offer bundled plant-based packages, including hemp milk, with recurring delivery discounts. Social commerce is another key driver; TikTok and Instagram influencers in Johannesburg and Dubai showcase recipe integrations, linking directly to e-commerce portals. Online platforms also provide access to niche or imported variants unavailable locally. During seasonal allergy peaks, Instacart observed a fourfold spike in plant-based milk add-ons to virtual carts, a trend that has persisted. Enhanced transparency features, such as QR codes showing farm origins and carbon footprint, are more easily deployed online, appealing to eco-conscious buyers. As last-mile delivery networks mature and AI personalization advances, the online channel is evolving into a strategic engine for brand loyalty, education, and scalable market expansion.

REGIONAL ANALYSIS

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates led the MEA hemp milk market with an estimated 26.4% share in 2024, establishing itself as the most advanced jurisdiction in terms of retail availability, consumer openness, and regulatory adaptability. Home to over 11 million residents, including 88% expatriates, the country serves as a gateway for global wellness trends, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi hosting premium supermarkets like Waitrose, Spinneys, and Go Nature that stock imported hemp milk. The Dubai Health Authority supports preventive nutrition initiatives, encouraging plant-based alternatives for managing diabetes and cardiovascular risks, conditions affecting one in three adults , according to the Gulf Diabetes Summit. Free zones such as DMCC allow compliant hemp-derived products to be imported and formulated under controlled conditions, bypassing strict narcotics laws applicable elsewhere. Amazon.ae and Noon.com have expanded listings for hemp milk, catering to digitally engaged consumers. With high disposable income, robust logistics, and a culture of experimentation, the UAE continues to set the pace for premium plant-based innovation in the region.

South Africa

South Africa captures a significant share of the MEA hemp milk market which is driven by a relatively progressive regulatory environment, private healthcare infrastructure, and a growing urban wellness movement. Although commercial hemp food sales remain limited, the Industrial Hemp Regulations of 2021 have opened pathways for research and pilot production. The country’s private health sector, actively promotes nutritional interventions for chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes. Discovery Health includes plant-based milk recommendations in its Vitality wellness program, influencing consumer behavior. Retailers like Woolworths and Pick n Pay stock imported organic hemp milk in major cities, while Cape Town-based startups experiment with local formulations. Supported by scientific validation and rising middle-class health consciousness, South Africa is emerging as a testing ground for culturally adapted hemp nutrition in sub-Saharan Africa.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a dynamic player under the impetus of Vision 2030 and national health reform. While hemp cultivation remains prohibited, the Ministry of Health’s National Transformation Program emphasizes preventive care and dietary diversification to combat rising obesity and diabetes rates. Imported hemp milk is available in premium stores in Riyadh and Jeddah, targeting affluent families and expatriates. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority is reviewing novel food regulations, potentially opening doors for compliant plant-based innovations. Wellness expos in Dhahran and Neom highlight plant-based nutrition, signaling shifting attitudes. As part of broader economic liberalization, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a hub for future foods, with hemp milk gaining quiet traction among urban elites seeking modern, science-backed dietary solutions.

Israel

Israel is functioning as a center of agritech innovation and functional food development. Despite strict cannabis laws, Israel permits industrial hemp cultivation under license for seed and fiber, with research institutions like Volcani Institute exploring food applications. The country’s advanced biotech sector has pioneered lipid stabilization and protein extraction techniques applicable to hemp milk formulation. Startups in Tel Aviv are developing hybrid plant milks combining hemp with chickpea or fava bean, tailored to Mediterranean tastes. High urban density, strong digital penetration, and a culture of medical innovation position Israel as a knowledge leader, exporting expertise even if domestic commercialization remains cautious.

Egypt

Egypt is reflecting nascent but growing interest amid legal restrictions and rising consumer curiosity. Though hemp cultivation is illegal under the Narcotics Law, urban populations in Cairo and Alexandria are increasingly exposed to plant-based nutrition through social media and expatriate influence. Importation remains rare, but specialty supplement shops in upscale neighborhoods occasionally stock hemp seed powder, suggesting underground interest. If regulatory reforms align with global standards, Egypt, with its large population and agricultural capacity—could emerge as a major market, leveraging its Nile-based farming zones for future domestic production.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS AND COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key players in the Middle East and Africa Hemp Milk Market include Victory Hemp Foods, milkadamia, Ecomil, Drink Daily Greens LLC, Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods, Organic Hemp Milk Australia, Goodmylk Co., The Fix Juice Pty Ltd, Cell-Nique Corporation, Good Hemp Food, Wild Harvest, PACIFIC FOODS OF OREGON, LLC.

The competitive landscape of the Middle East and Africa hemp milk market remains nascent but increasingly strategic, shaped by regulatory constraints, cultural adaptation, and selective consumer access. Unlike mature plant-based markets in Europe or North America, competition here is not defined by mass-market penetration but by precision targeting of affluent urban enclaves, expatriate communities, and private health-conscious segments. The arena includes a mix of international importers, regional distributors, and early-stage startups navigating complex legal frameworks and limited infrastructure. Differentiation hinges less on price and more on perceived purity, origin authenticity, and alignment with wellness narratives. Retail presence in premium grocery chains like Spinneys, Waitrose, and Wellness Warehouse serves as a critical signal of legitimacy, often determining brand viability. Educational outreach is paramount, as widespread confusion between industrial hemp and psychoactive cannabis continues to hinder acceptance. Brands that invest in transparent storytelling, medical validation, and culturally resonant innovation are gaining traction, positioning hemp milk not as a lifestyle trend but as a science-backed, ethically sourced solution for chronic disease prevention and environmental sustainability. As regulatory clarity improves in countries like South Africa and the UAE, competition is shifting from isolated experimentation to structured ecosystem-building, where success will depend on trust, localization, and institutional integration rather than mere product availability.

TOP PLAYERS IN THE MARKET

Targhan Natural Gum Company

Targhan Natural Gum Company, based in Iran, is a leading global supplier of high-purity tragacanth gum harvested from wild Astragalus species in arid mountain regions. The company specializes in traditional, sustainable extraction methods that preserve the gum’s natural viscosity and emulsifying properties, making it highly valued in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food applications worldwide. Targhan plays a vital role in international supply chains by ensuring consistent quality, traceability, and ethical sourcing. Its operations support rural harvesting communities while adhering to international safety standards. By maintaining rigorous post-harvest processing protocols, Targhan has established itself as a trusted exporter, contributing significantly to the availability of premium-grade tragacanth in specialty industrial and medical formulations across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Afghan Agro Products Exporters

Afghan Agro Products Exporters operates in Afghanistan’s remote highland ecosystems, where native Astragalus shrubs thrive under optimal ecological conditions. Known for producing resin with superior gelling strength and stability, the company connects decentralized gatherers with international buyers through structured, transparent networks. It emphasizes fair-trade practices, post-collection hygiene, and capacity building to elevate product integrity. The firm enhances the visibility of Afghan-origin tragacanth in niche markets, particularly in organic skincare and herbal medicine. Their work strengthens regional economic resilience, preserves traditional knowledge, and positions Afghanistan as a credible source of artisanal botanical gums within the global marketplace, despite logistical and political challenges.

Sahara Botanicals (Morocco)

Sahara Botanicals, operating in southern Morocco, focuses on arid-zone medicinal plants, including select grades of tragacanth used in eco-luxury cosmetics and natural therapeutics. While production volumes are modest compared to Iranian suppliers, the company distinguishes itself through artisanal craftsmanship and alignment with European clean beauty trends. It collaborates with women-led cooperatives to ensure equitable income distribution and promotes conservation of native flora. Though not a major volume exporter, Sahara Botanicals influences market diversity by introducing region-specific tragacanth variants into premium skincare supply chains, contributing to the global appreciation of North African botanical heritage and sustainable harvesting ethics.

TOP STRATEGIES USED BY KEY MARKET PARTICIPANTS

One major strategy adopted by emerging players is strategic importation and localization through premium retail partnerships , where brands collaborate with high-end supermarkets and wellness stores in expatriate-dense urban centers to gain shelf presence and consumer trust. This approach allows foreign hemp milk producers to bypass regulatory ambiguity by aligning with established distribution networks in free zones or private health-focused outlets.

Another pivotal tactic is culturally tailored formulation , involving the development of region-specific flavor profiles such as date-infused, saffron-vanilla, or rooibos-blended hemp milk that resonate with local taste traditions. By integrating familiar ingredients from Middle Eastern and African culinary repertoires, companies reduce sensory resistance and position hemp milk as an evolved part of daily dietary habits rather than a foreign substitute.

A third key approach involves private healthcare and wellness ecosystem integration , where brands partner with clinics, nutritionists, and corporate wellness programs to position hemp milk as a functional food for managing diabetes, inflammation, and cardiovascular health. These endorsements lend scientific credibility, open institutional procurement pathways, and foster long-term consumer confidence in a market still grappling with misinformation and skepticism.

RECENT HAPPENINGS IN THE MARKET

• In March 2023, Nush, a UK-based plant-based brand, launched its organic hemp milk in Dubai through a partnership with Waitrose UAE, marking one of the first dedicated hemp milk entries into the Gulf premium retail sector.
• In July 2023, Cape Town-based startup GreenMilk Co. introduced a locally formulated, unflavored hemp milk for private clinics and wellness centers, aiming to integrate it into diabetic and cardiac patient dietary plans.
• In November 2023, Plenish expanded its distribution to Saudi Arabia via the Noon e-commerce platform, leveraging digital reach to target health-conscious consumers in Riyadh and Jeddah.
• In January 2024, a Dubai-based wellness distributor, Vital Foods ME, began importing cold-pressed hemp milk from Europe and launching educational seminars for nutritionists and fitness trainers across the UAE.
• In May 2024, Woolworths South Africa featured imported hemp milk in a national “Plant-Powered Living” campaign, including in-store tastings and collaborations with dietitians to boost consumer awareness.

MARKET SEGMENTATION

This research report on the Middle East and Africa hemp milk market is segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories.

By Variants

• Flavored
• Unflavored

By Categories

• Sweetened
• Unsweetened

By Products

• Organic
• Non-Organic

By Distribution Channel

• Online
• Offline

By Region

• KSA
• UAE
• Israel
• rest of GCC countries
• South Africa
• Ethiopia
• Kenya
• Egypt
• Sudan
• rest of MEA