Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The total non-oil Saudi commodity exports increased to more than SAR206 billion by 2023, according to the annual report of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP).

By the end of 2023, the program had initiated 283 projects, of which 102 were completed, accounting for 36%. The program's sectors contributed more than SAR345 billion to the gross domestic product.

The annual report of the program is titled "Renewed Horizons." The report highlights the program's performance indicators, strategic objectives, contributions to the macroeconomy, support for the gross domestic product, and achievements related to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.

The report reveals a substantial increase in the number of workers in the program's sectors, reaching over 204,000, of whom more than 82,000 are Saudi men and women. This growth reflects the program's commitment to local employment and its potential for further expansion.

NIDLP's contribution to the overall economy and gross domestic product is significant, amounting to more than 35%. The growth rate of non-oil exports reached an impressive 74%, underscoring the program's impact on the macroeconomy.

The report highlights several achievements across all sectors. In the energy sector, gas injection began in the processed gas storage project in the Hawiyah reservoir in Unayzah, with a record storage capacity of 2.0 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day. Additionally, six new solar energy projects with a capacity of 6.2 gigawatts were launched to increase the percentage of renewable energy.

In the mining sector, the General Geological Survey program completed over 30% of the total area of the Arabian Shield in 2023.

In the industrial sector, four new special economic zones were launched, bringing the total number to five. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the establishment of the National Automotive Company (CEER), the first automotive company in Saudi Arabia dedicated to producing electric vehicles. Furthermore, an agreement was signed with Lucid Motors to establish the first factory for the production of electric cars, and the Public Investment Fund signed an agreement with Hyundai Motor Company.

In the logistics sector, a significant achievement in 2023 was the launch of the general plan for logistics centers as part of the Kingdom's transformation into a global logistics platform. This plan supports the Kingdom's vision by leveraging its unique geographical location that connects three important continents.

The report also includes many other achievements and success stories of individuals, executive agencies, and companies in the private sector.

Established in 2019, NIDLP aims to position the Kingdom as a leading industrial power and a global logistics platform through four main sectors: energy, mining, industry, and logistics. Additionally, it focuses on the Fourth Industrial Revolution and local content to maximize economic impact.