BEIJING — Saudi Arabia and China launched a sweeping strategic partnership by signing 57 agreements and memorandums of understanding, unlocking over SAR 14 billion ($3.7 billion) in joint investments. The deals span agriculture, water, and environmental sectors, laying the groundwork for unprecedented economic integration.
The agreements were sealed during the Saudi-Chinese Forum on Exporting Agricultural Products and Sector Sustainability, held in Beijing with high-level participation from both governments and private sectors. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli, led the delegation, emphasizing China’s role as the Kingdom’s largest trading partner, accounting for 18% of Saudi Arabia’s total foreign trade.
Al-Fadhli highlighted that under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to boost non-oil exports and diversify trade partners. Currently, over 20 Saudi food products have penetrated Chinese markets, with plans to expand further into water infrastructure, aquaculture, poultry, and agri-processing industries.
Key agreements included knowledge-sharing in water recycling, algae-based biofuel production, advanced shrimp genetics, and vertical farming. A major milestone was the plan to develop a smart food security city in Saudi Arabia, complete with logistics hubs and processing facilities, as well as a new industrial zone in Jazan focusing on agri-linked manufacturing.
The forum also spotlighted Saudi dates, produce, and bottled water, which will now be exported to China under new supply agreements. A dedicated Saudi exhibition showcased approved products entering the Chinese market.
The initiative reflects a deepening bilateral commitment to sustainable development and food security, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader objectives under Vision 2030.
