The Saudi Export-Import Bank (EXIM) will continue to develop the alternative economy as a target to support the strengthening of the Kingdom's commercial position globally, announced CEO Saad Alkhalb.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Alkhalb expected more investment opportunities in the emerging sectors, which will impact the alternative economy and enhance the Kingdom's commercial position.
EXIM continues to hold workshops with various Saudi chambers to introduce the bank's products and services and the credit and financing solutions it provides in cooperation with its local and foreign strategic partners.
Alkhalb pointed out that the open meetings with employees of the Saudi Chambers, and businessmen and women in the regions, increased awareness of the bank's role in supporting the export of Saudi products.
It also attracted large numbers of local exporters who want to benefit from these services, given that small and medium-sized enterprises account for over half of the approved financing applications.
EXIM signed nearly $118 million in deals with three banks and signed an insurance policy with the Saudi British Bank worth $63.5 million to enhance documentary credits.
EXIM Bank also signed a credit lines agreement with Jordan's Capital Bank and the National Bank of Iraq to support importers of Saudi goods, services, and products in the Jordanian and Iraqi markets.
Alkhalb said the agreements provide a real opportunity to enable Saudi exporters and entrepreneurs to export their national products, services, and unique technologies to global markets.
In October, EXIM Bank signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Japanese Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) to provide more financial solutions that support trade between exporters and importers in Saudi Arabia and Japan and enable them to export and import goods easily with fewer risks.
The MoU stipulates supporting joint finance projects, developing all financial transactions, providing buyer credit finance, and discussing opportunities to secure financial guarantees or letters for beneficiaries with credit competency from Saudi exporters or Japanese buyers.
It also promotes innovative solutions that can increase chances to finance purchases and implement projects related to Saudi and Japanese exports.
