SIDF to Start New Phase to Support Economic Sectors

SIDF to Start New Phase to Support Economic Sectors
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SIDF to Start New Phase to Support Economic Sectors

SIDF to Start New Phase to Support Economic Sectors

Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF) is preparing to start a new phase that would stimulate, support and finance the private sector, contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, an ambitious national vision aimed at diversifying the economy.

The Fund is expected to target new areas that will keep pace with the vitality of the Saudi economy in light of Vision 2030 and its national programs.

SIDF targets several areas including industry, mining, energy and logistics services under the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP).

The Saudi private sector is heading towards a new stage, which will stimulate it to contribute more to the Kingdom’s GDP and open a new horizon for investment.

The SIDF is now considered one of the most important arms that target stimulating, supporting, and financing the national industry.

The Cabinet approved Wednesday amendments to SIDF’s regulations, which marks a key step towards enhancing its role as a financial enabler for the Kingdom’s ambitious development plans, the most important of which is the NIDLP, which was launched earlier this year.

SIDF Director-General Dr. Ibrahim al-Mojel said that the amendment will enable the Fund to expand its support to a number of new and promising sectors through a new package of financial services and products that meet the needs of the private sector in the fields of industry, mining, energy, national industry, and logistics services.

“After 45 years of work, SIDF continues to contribute to a wide range of programs and services that will meet our ambitious goals under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to bolster the industry’s needs and meet its requirements, while providing first-class support to enterprises operating in the sector,” Mojel explained in a press release.



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.