Saudi Arabia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with global packaging company Sidel to evaluate the establishment of advanced packaging business in the Kingdom.
The agreement was signed during a formal ministerial visit to France and aims to support the localization of high-tech manufacturing capabilities and strengthen the food and beverage packaging sector.
The Memorandum of Understanding was formalized by Eng. Saleh Alsolami, CEO of Saudi National Center for Industrial Development (NIDC), and Clive Smith, Executive Vice President of Account Management for Asia, Oceania and Africa, Sidel.
Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef and Sidel CEO Pietro Cassani participated in the signing.
The agreement outlines plans to jointly assess the feasibility of establishing local production and services in Saudi Arabia.
This is a response to the growing demand for the Kingdom’s food and beverage packaging market, at the heart of broader industrial growth under the framework of the 2030 Vision.
Through localized advanced packaging technology, the partnership aims to promote knowledge transfer and enhance industrial self-sufficiency. According to officials, Sidel's global expertise can help the Kingdom develop its competitiveness in its strategic sector.
The deal forms part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to attract foreign direct investment and deepen cooperation with multinational corporations.
NIDC describes the agreement as building a long-term, value-added partnership to promote economic diversification and private sector development.
The minister's visit to France also included meetings with senior executives from leading industrial companies such as Airbus, Safran and Lesfal. These discussions are intended to explore further cooperation in the field of high-tech and to support the Kingdom's broader industrial strategy.
Saudi Arabia reiterates its commitment to creating an attractive environment for global manufacturing and packaging investors. Officials highlighted the availability of economic incentives, skilled local talent, and regulatory support designed to localize international supply chains.
The SIDEL protocol reflects broader ambitions to strengthen the kingdom’s industrial base by working with companies that bring innovation, advanced processes and long-term investment potential.
