Dairy Firms Consider Merging in Saudi Arabia

Dairy Firms Consider Merging in Saudi Arabia
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Dairy Firms Consider Merging in Saudi Arabia

Dairy Firms Consider Merging in Saudi Arabia

A number of small and medium dairy product companies in Saudi Arabia are considering merging.

According to Asharq Al-Awsat, the small and medium dairy firms in the Kingdom have an opportunity to merge -- this step is expected to achieve an increase in the companies’ capacity in production and outreach to customers, instead of only selling raw products to giant companies.

Furthermore, the decision to halt the production of green fodder locally would likely push towards merger among the small and medium dairy firms, especially since some of these small companies will not be able to directly import fodder, which requires direct financial and managerial capabilities.

Mergers might help prolong the longevity of firms in a way that allows them to regain part of their capital put into the industry. Studies revealed recently that small dairy companies will definitely merge with giant companies.

These developments at a time Saudi Arabia announced an implementation mechanism of the regulations regarding halting green fodder production.

During a news conference in Riyadh, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture said that the farmers in the country will be compelled in the future to issue an agricultural record by which the kind of activity, the cultivated space and the farm coordinates are determined.

In a related matter, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture Eng. Ahmed al-Ayada revealed that the ministry’s approach stems from its keenness to maintain resources of underground waters.



Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
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Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)

As Saudi companies start reporting their Q2 financial results, experts are optimistic about the transport and logistics sector. They expect a 10% annual growth, with total net profits reaching around SAR 900 million ($240 million), driven by tourism and an economic corridor project.

In Q1, the seven listed transport and logistics companies in Saudi Arabia showed positive results, with combined profits increasing by 5.8% to SAR 818.7 million ($218 million) compared to the previous year.

Four companies reported profit growth, while three saw declines, including two with losses, according to Arbah Capital.

Al Rajhi Capital projects significant gains for Q2 compared to last year: Lumi Rental’s profits are expected to rise by 31% to SAR 65 million, SAL’s by 76% to SAR 192 million, and Theeb’s by 23% to SAR 37 million.

On the other hand, Aljazira Capital predicts a 13% decrease in Lumi Rental’s net profit to SAR 43 million, despite a 44% rise in revenue. This is due to higher operational costs post-IPO.

SAL’s annual profit is expected to grow by 76% to SAR 191.6 million, driven by a 29% increase in revenue and higher profit margins.

Aljazira Capital also expects a 2.8% drop in the sector’s net profit from Q1 due to lower profits for SAL and Seera, caused by reduced revenue and profit margins.

Mohammad Al Farraj, Head of Asset Management at Arbah Capital, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the sector’s continued profit growth is supported by seasonal factors like summer travel and higher demand for transport services.

He predicts Q2 profits will reach around SAR 900 million ($240 million), up 10% from Q1.

Al Farraj highlighted that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), linking India with the GCC and Europe, is expected to boost sector growth by improving trade and transport connections.

However, he warned that companies may still face challenges, including rising costs and workforce shortages.