In a momentous stride towards its energy transition goals, Saudi Arabia has unveiled its first-ever natural gas storage project in Al-Hawiyah, Unaizah. With a storage capacity of 2 billion cubic feet, this project is a flagship initiative under the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030. Key to this vision is Saudi Arabia’s strategic intent to leverage its geographical advantage and natural resources to foster an economy open to foreign investment and ripe for competitive growth.
Impressive Achievements of the NIDLP
The NIDLP has catalyzed significant economic milestones. It has generated over 200,000 jobs, with 60% of these opportunities being allocated to Saudi citizens. The mining sector has witnessed a record revenue surge of more than SAR 1.5 billion (approximately USD 400 million), under the program’s influence. Furthermore, the NIDLP has enabled Saudi Arabia to transform into a global logistics hub, a vision outlined by the Crown Prince’s national transport and logistics strategy. Economic indicators of the NIDLP reveal a contribution of 35% to the non-oil GDP, with non-governmental investments surpassing SAR 97 billion (USD 25.8 billion).
New Agreements and Discoveries
In addition to the gas storage project, Saudi Arabia has signed agreements for five new renewable energy projects, boasting a combined production capacity of 6 gigawatts. Other breakthroughs include the discovery of new minerals and natural resources, with the anticipation of more revelations at the impending International Mining Conference in January.
Global Industry Updates
Meanwhile, in the global industrial landscape, Toyota’s small car unit, Daihatsu Motor, is set to compensate 423 domestic suppliers hit by production halts due to a safety-related scandal. With plans to address the situation with its main suppliers, Toyota may also extend its support to smaller contractors to access support funds.
Russia’s 2023 grain harvest, the second-largest in history, has recorded 142.6 million metric tons, albeit 9.5% lower than the 2022 record. Despite challenges posed by a scarcity of ships, insurance, and payment issues triggered by Western sanctions, Russia anticipates exporting a substantial amount of grain. The country’s agricultural exports are projected to cross a new record of over USD 45 billion.
On another front, Danish shipping company Maersk is gearing up to recommence its operations in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This move follows the deployment of a US-led multinational force aimed at securing trade safety in the region, which has been under threat due to attacks on international ships by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.
