Minister Of Industry Bandar Alkhorayef Leads Fifth Meeting Of Industrial Council To Tackle Investor Challenges
The fifth meeting of the Industrial Council's second session was led by Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, on Sunday. This gathering brought together representatives from both public and private sectors to discuss the needs and challenges faced by industrial investors in Saudi Arabia. Key attendees included Suhail bin Mohammed Abanmi, Governor of the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, and Dr. Rumaih Al-Rumaih, Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics.
Alkhorayef stressed the ministry's dedication to overcoming obstacles for industrial investors. He mentioned issues such as industrial lands, financing, and workforce concerns. The ministry is working with relevant government bodies to address these challenges. Efforts are underway to simplify investor procedures by centralizing regulatory processes, allowing applications through a single contact point.

In partnership with the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Industry has introduced the Industrial Sector Competitiveness Program. This initiative assists factories in transitioning from liquid fuels to more efficient energy sources. It also aims to reduce the impact of changes in energy and water pricing on industrial operations.
During the meeting, several key topics were discussed. These included leasing contracts for factories, regulations governing investment contracts with leasing entities, transportation issues within the industrial sector, and a government program for facility purchase financing. Council members examined these matters and considered solutions to support industrial investors.
The Industrial Council aims to strengthen collaboration between public and private sectors. It provides a platform for government entities to gain insights from the private sector regarding strategies, priorities, and policies affecting the industrial sector. This cooperative approach seeks to establish frameworks and mechanisms to address sectoral challenges effectively.
The council's efforts focus on promoting cooperation to accelerate industrial development in Saudi Arabia. By fostering dialogue between public and private stakeholders, it aims to implement practical solutions that benefit both sectors.
Eng. Khalil bin Salamah, Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs, also participated in the meeting alongside other council members from relevant government agencies and private sector representatives.
Alkhorayef highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency within industrial establishments. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance competitiveness in Saudi Arabia's industrial sector.
The meeting underscored the importance of addressing transportation challenges within the industrial sector. By identifying potential solutions, council members aim to facilitate smoother logistics operations for businesses across Saudi Arabia.
The Industrial Council continues its mission to provide a collaborative environment where public-private partnerships can thrive. Through this forum, stakeholders work together to identify opportunities for growth and development in Saudi Arabia's industrial landscape.
With inputs from SPA