Saudi Arabia's trade balance has achieved a remarkable surplus of SR90.5 billion in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting a substantial quarterly increase of 60 percent, up by SR33.9 billion from the previous quarter. This surge is indicative of a robust annual growth rate of 43.7 percent, surpassing the SR63 billion surplus recorded in the same period last year. The data, released by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in the March International Trade Bulletin, highlights a continued upward trajectory in the Kingdom's trade surplus, which rose by 200.9 percent in March alone, compared to February 2026. The total international trade volume for the first quarter exceeded SR535 billion, marking a 4.5 percent annual growth rate and an increase of SR22.9 billion from the corresponding period in 2025.
During this period, Saudi Arabia's merchandise exports reached approximately SR312.8 billion, while imports totaled around SR222.3 billion. Notably, national exports, which include both petroleum and non-petroleum products, amounted to SR274.5 billion. The Kingdom also saw re-exports exceeding SR38 billion, demonstrating a significant annual growth rate of 32.9 percent. Asian countries emerged as the largest importers of Saudi exports, with China leading the charge at SR44.8 billion. The efficiency of the Kingdom's logistics infrastructure is underscored by the performance of its customs ports, with King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port facilitating substantial export volumes.
These impressive trade figures underscore the resilience and dynamism of Saudi Arabia's foreign trade landscape, driven by a combination of increasing national exports, re-exports, and enhanced global trade relationships. The sustained growth in trade activity is a positive indicator of the Kingdom's economic health and its strategic positioning in the global market.
During this period, Saudi Arabia's merchandise exports reached approximately SR312.8 billion, while imports totaled around SR222.3 billion. Notably, national exports, which include both petroleum and non-petroleum products, amounted to SR274.5 billion. The Kingdom also saw re-exports exceeding SR38 billion, demonstrating a significant annual growth rate of 32.9 percent. Asian countries emerged as the largest importers of Saudi exports, with China leading the charge at SR44.8 billion. The efficiency of the Kingdom's logistics infrastructure is underscored by the performance of its customs ports, with King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port facilitating substantial export volumes.
These impressive trade figures underscore the resilience and dynamism of Saudi Arabia's foreign trade landscape, driven by a combination of increasing national exports, re-exports, and enhanced global trade relationships. The sustained growth in trade activity is a positive indicator of the Kingdom's economic health and its strategic positioning in the global market.
Source: Saudi Gazette
