Saudi Arabia has launched 15 new incentives under its Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, aiming to boost export competitiveness, enhance supply chain security, and strengthen the country’s position as a global logistics hub.
The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources unveiled the incentives, which include administrative benefits such as the assignment of liaison officers and account managers to facilitate investor processes and address challenges more effectively.
Companies participating in the program will gain access to industrial land with long-term leases of up to 30 years, along with eligibility for the “Custom Factory on Demand” service. These measures are designed to support industrial growth and enhance Saudi Arabia’s role in international trade.
This announcement follows the Saudi Cabinet’s approval in December to allocate SR10 billion ($2.66 billion) to activate the Standard Incentives Program, a funding initiative aimed at encouraging industrial investment, driving growth, and supporting the sustainable development of the industrial sector.
The new incentives will also streamline investor processes, including faster processing times and priority access to pre-developed industrial lands and factories. Additionally, businesses will have preferential access to benefits provided by the Saudi Export Development Authority.
Financial support is available through the Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF), which can cover up to 75 percent of project costs. SIDF offers extended financing terms of up to 20 years and grace periods of up to 36 months. Eligible companies can also benefit from advisory services and training programs through SIDF’s industrial academy.
The AEO program is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to enhance its customs and logistics services, simplify trade procedures, and improve supply chain efficiency. The initiative is designed to support the competitiveness of Saudi companies on the global stage and attract investments, particularly benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises.
Launched by the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA), the AEO program aligns with global trade standards used by over 80 countries. It offers businesses adhering to secure trade practices smoother operations in international customs procedures.
On January 11, ZATCA expanded the AEO program into a national initiative, integrating 15 government entities to support the program’s objectives.
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