RIYADH: Factories in Saudi Arabia’s southwestern Najran region have achieved a remarkable milestone by exporting industrial and mineral products to over 25 countries.
This advancement highlights the region’s growing industrial capabilities and its successful adoption of modern manufacturing techniques. Najran, rich in mineral resources estimated at SR145 billion ($38.6 billion), including gold, silver, copper, and zinc, is central to Saudi Arabia’s goal of transforming mining into a foundational pillar of its economy.
This progress aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to elevate the mining sector as a key component of economic diversification. The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources is committed to enhancing the sector by providing state-of-the-art services and technologies, supporting private sector partners, and attracting investments that add value to the national economy. These efforts are intended to boost the competitiveness of Saudi industry and expand its access to regional and global markets.
In Najran, the industrial sector has seen significant growth, with 90 factories operating in the region. These facilities cover a range of industries, including food, plastic, marble, granite, paper, coal, and cement. The total industrial investment in the region exceeds SR4.81 billion, supported by SR880 million in industrial loans. The industrial city spans 6.5 million square meters and houses factories specializing in non-metallic minerals, rubber and plastic products, food products, pharmaceuticals, and coke production.
The workforce in the industrial sector stands at 6,256 employees, including 1,855 Saudi nationals. Key projects in the region include the Sal Food Products Factory, known for its automated production lines of high-quality food commodities, and the Bin Harkil Factory for Granite and Marble, which exports its products worldwide. Additionally, the Starworld Plastics Industries Factory manufactures polyethylene tanks and plastic barriers, contributing significantly to local content.
The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources seeks to leverage the unique advantages of each region in Saudi Arabia to develop its industrial and mining sectors. By offering a comprehensive package of capabilities and incentives, the ministry aims to create a stable and attractive investment environment, further supporting the growth of the industry and its global outreach.
Source: Arab News
