Saudi Arabia grants record number of export licenses for steel and cement

The Ministry of Commerce has announced a momentous achievement in the country's economic diversification efforts.  In a bid to bolster its economic diversification efforts, Saudi Arabia has issued a remarkable total of 29 export licenses for steel and 12 licenses for cement during the first half of 2023. This significant milestone includes 201 licenses for steel export and 133 licenses for cement export, underscoring Saudi Arabia's growing influence as a major player in the global construction materials market.

The issuance of these export licenses is a part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing the nation's dependence on oil revenues and fostering a more diversified and sustainable economy. By promoting the export of non-oil products like steel and cement, the kingdom seeks to tap into new revenue streams and create more job opportunities in related industries.

The steel industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by increased construction projects, infrastructure development, and manufacturing activities both within the kingdom and in neighboring regions. With the export licenses granted to 29 steel companies, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a major player in the global steel market, strengthening its position as a key supplier of this crucial construction material.