Saudi Arabia strengthens industrial ties with China, Singapore to boost automotive technology

Saudi Arabia has decided to strengthen its industrial relationships with China and Singapore during a high-profile economic visit from September 1 to 8, 2024, led by Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar AlKhorayef.

The delegation’s mission is to enhance bilateral ties, attract investments, and explore joint-venture opportunities, all in line with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of economic diversification.

The visit will feature strategic meetings with senior officials and leading companies in the automotive, automation, and technology sectors. In China, key stops include Guangzhou and Hong Kong, where discussions with industry giants such as GAC Group, General Lithium, and Huawei are planned. The delegation will also meet with Hong Kong’s top industrial leaders and visit significant sites like Hutchison Ports and Johnson Electric.

In Singapore, the Saudi delegation will engage with top government officials and explore collaborations at Tuas Port and with organizations like A*STAR and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation. These efforts highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to integrating advanced technology and automation into its industrial sectors.

Saudi Arabia’s long-standing relationship with China, characterized by over $100 billion in trade in 2023, will be a focal point, particularly in the automotive and minerals sectors. Meanwhile, Singapore’s expertise in automation and technology aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious “Future Factories” initiative, aiming to automate 4,000 factories by 2030.

The automotive sector remains a priority for Saudi Arabia, with recent initiatives like the launch of its first electric vehicle brand, “Ceer,” and the opening of the “Lucid” EV factory. These moves are part of the Kingdom’s strategy to become a regional hub for advanced automotive technologies.

Throughout the visit, Saudi Arabia will explore partnerships in smart solutions and Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies with companies like Huawei, further positioning the Kingdom as a leader in industrial innovation. The delegation’s efforts are expected to strengthen economic ties, support sustainable development, and promote mutual growth with China and Singapore.