Minister of Industry: Exports reach 220 billion and localization rises to 31%
The Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, announced that the industrial sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has achieved unprecedented leaps forward, during his remarks at the government press conference held on Wednesday. Al-Khorayef revealed figures reflecting the success of national strategies, noting that the Saudization rate in the industrial sector has risen from 29% in 2019 to 31%, demonstrating the sector's commitment to empowering Saudi talent.
In reviewing the achievements, the Minister explained that the volume of industrial exports witnessed remarkable growth, jumping from 187 billion riyals to 220 billion riyals, which strengthens the position of Saudi products in global markets. He also pointed to the surge in the number of industrial establishments, which rose from 8,000 in 2019 to exceed 12,000 by mid-2025, demonstrating the attractiveness of the investment environment in the Kingdom.
The context of industrial transformation and Vision 2030
These achievements are the culmination of the Kingdom's tireless efforts since the launch of Vision 2030, which established the industrial sector as a cornerstone for diversifying the economic base and reducing dependence on oil. The National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) has played a pivotal role in this transformation by improving the legislative and logistical infrastructure and offering incentive packages aimed at attracting local and foreign investment, thus transforming the Kingdom into a leading industrial power in the region.
Economic and social impact
The significance of these figures extends beyond the economic sphere, encompassing a broad social and developmental impact. This industrial growth has contributed to the creation of approximately 360,000 new jobs, bringing the total number of jobs in the sector to 840,000. This directly contributes to reducing unemployment rates and improving the quality of life. On the economic front, the increased local content in government procurement, reaching 51.5% compared to 28% previously, strengthens the private sector's role in sustainable development and enhances the efficiency of government spending.
Financing and infrastructure enablers
Al-Khorayef reviewed the role of financing and support entities, noting that the Saudi Industrial Development Fund has provided loans and credits totaling approximately 93 billion riyals since the launch of Vision 2030 until the end of last October, while the Export-Import Bank has provided financing exceeding one billion riyals since its establishment. Regarding infrastructure, the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) has successfully increased the number of industrial cities from 31 to 42, thus providing a comprehensive and supportive environment for various industries.
The minister concluded his remarks by mentioning the launch of the comprehensive guide to the most prominent industrial enablers, which includes 120 enablers, stressing the importance of the “Made in Saudi Arabia 2025” exhibition in highlighting the industrial identity of the Kingdom and enhancing confidence in the national product locally and globally.
