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SMEs account for 90 percent of the industrial sector in Saudi Arabia, says Minister Alkhorayef

The ministry has launched initiatives in the industrial and mining sectors for entrepreneurs and SMEs to leverage
SMEs account for 90 percent of the industrial sector in Saudi Arabia, says Minister Alkhorayef
The Minister highlighted the crucial role of innovative projects in the sector. (Photo Credit: SPA)

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, stated that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) comprise 90 percent of companies in the industrial sector.

During a dialogue session at the industry and mineral resources pioneers’ week organized by the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha’at), Alkhorayef highlighted the crucial role of innovative projects in the sector. He noted that industrial technical applications have effectively addressed various challenges faced by large industries, while advancements in mining technology focus on preserving resources, protecting the environment, and enhancing productivity.

Read more: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry issues 12 new mining licenses in March 2024

Alkhorayef underscored the importance of not only facilitating entry for investors and entrepreneurs but also ensuring the sustainability of their projects. This includes helping them navigate challenges and providing clear guidance throughout their investment journey.

He identified the mining sector as a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs, supported by increasing investor interest, and encouraged them to tap into its potential. Alkhorayef also mentioned that the ministry has introduced incentives and initiatives in the industrial and mining sectors that entrepreneurs and SME owners should leverage.

By the end of the second quarter of 2023, Saudi Arabia’s banking and financing sectors provided SAR262.7 billion in credit facilities to small, medium, and micro enterprises. This marks the highest level of support recorded so far, reflecting an annual growth of approximately 18.8 percent. In the same quarter of the previous year, the credit facility volume was SAR221.0 billion, while the total credit provided in 2018 was SAR108.5 billion.

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