Saudi Arabia to Implement Strategic Approach to Develop Biotechnologies at Global Level

The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi Arabia to Implement Strategic Approach to Develop Biotechnologies at Global Level

The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
The Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Participants in the Riyadh Global Biomedical Technology Summit underlined the need to launch an international coalition to work on the implementation of a set of recommendations issued at the end of the two-day conference.

Held under the auspices of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, the Riyadh International Biomedical Technology Summit concluded on Thursday, with the participation of a large number of government officials, experts and scientists in biomedical technology.

The conference emphasized the importance of maximizing health technology investment and cell and gene therapy, as well as researching ways to eliminate solid tumors by targeting cancer cells using cell therapy, and improving research and development productivity.

Bandar Al-Khorayef, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, said that the Kingdom followed a strategic and comprehensive approach to building the right infrastructure for biotechnology on a global level, with the aim to attract the best talents, promote innovation, and turn Saudi Arabia into an international leader in the field of healthcare and life sciences.

The minister added that Saudi Arabia had 50 registered pharmaceutical factories that cover the domestic reserves, with a rate of 28 percent in terms of value, and 42 percent in terms of volume, noting that pharmaceutical exports amounted to 1.5 million riyals ($400,000).

Al-Khorayef emphasized that the chemical pharmaceutical sector in the Kingdom “has proven its efficiency and ability to deal with challenges during the pandemic.”

Eng. Suliman Almazroua, CEO of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), touched on the Saudi Vision 2030 programs, which seek to transform the country into a leading industrial power in the world and the region.

The conference sessions discussed clinical trials, the development of the working mechanisms of the Real World Evidence (RWD), and the significant role of the Real World Data and artificial intelligence in reading the present and the assumed future.



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.