Al-Khorayef: Saudi Arabia Seeking to Localize Large Range of Pharmaceutical Industries

Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Al-Khorayef speaks at the Global Health Forum. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Al-Khorayef speaks at the Global Health Forum. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Al-Khorayef: Saudi Arabia Seeking to Localize Large Range of Pharmaceutical Industries

Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Al-Khorayef speaks at the Global Health Forum. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Al-Khorayef speaks at the Global Health Forum. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Al-Khorayef revealed that around 8,000 types of medicines are consumed in the Kingdom, highlighting that the country has identified a set of priorities, focusing on approximately 172 medicines and localizing the production of around 42 of them.

During a panel discussion on the first day of the 7th edition of the Global Health Forum, held in Riyadh on Monday, Al-Khorayef stated that Saudi Arabia offers significant facilitation for industrialization and localization, with a clear framework for enablers and incentives to encourage investors and stakeholders to enter the healthcare sector.

The ministry is collaborating with various sectors to develop industries in the Kingdom, with the goal of positioning the country as a global hub for vaccine manufacturing, he noted.

The minister pointed to “ongoing discussion about identifying global vaccine manufacturing locations, and we aim for Saudi Arabia to be one of these key areas.”

Al-Khorayef explained that the Vaccine and Biological Medicines Industry Committee has already become the central body managing investment attraction and localizing this industry. This provides global partners with a clear understanding of the Kingdom’s requirements and the market opportunities, offering them a clear point of reference for localizing the sector.

He further emphasized that Saudi Arabia has developed local content tools to facilitate technology transfer, ensuring that companies entering the local market will be successful and sustainable.

Al-Khorayef highlighted the growth in medical device manufacturing plants in the Kingdom, which increased from 54 to 150, while pharmaceutical factories grew from 42 to 56.

He also pointed out that advanced technologies, such as 3D printing, align well with the Saudi market. These technologies offer exceptional solutions to assist doctors and healthcare providers and have already reached advanced stages in their use for certain surgeries.

Additionally, the Kingdom is building a broad industrial base, a significant part of which will support the medical device sector, including industries such as metals, advanced petrochemicals, and chemical pharmaceuticals.



Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Riyadh to Host 3rd Edition of Saudi Tourism Forum Under the Slogan ‘To Discover’

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Riyadh is set to host the third edition of the Saudi Tourism Forum from January 7 to 9 at Roshn Front.

Organized in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Development Fund, the event will run under the theme "To Discover."

This year’s forum serves as a dynamic platform to highlight new and unique tourist destinations across the Kingdom, offering visitors innovative experiences while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s diverse tourism potential. With over 100 exhibitors, the forum provides an expansive space to explore the latest developments in the tourism sector, spotlight major investment projects, and foster skill development and partnerships to drive tourism growth.

Chief Executive Officer of 4M Event and Chairman of the Forum’s Organizing Committee Eng. Hamza Nasser emphasized the forum’s role in advancing collaboration within the tourism sector. "Through the forum, we aim to promote the beauty of Saudi tourist destinations, enhance cooperation among stakeholders, and raise awareness about investment and development opportunities. This aligns with the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030,” he said.
Since its inception, the Saudi Tourism Forum has significantly advanced efforts to promote the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage and distinctive tourist sites. Supported by prominent partners and sponsors, the event underscores a shared commitment to developing this vital sector.
The program will feature a variety of seminars and workshops, offering insights into the latest trends and developments in tourism. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with keynote speakers, decision-makers, and industry professionals, enhancing their skills and knowledge.
The forum is expected to attract a diverse audience, including business leaders, investors, officials, and dignitaries, creating fertile ground for collaboration and partnerships.