As the global marketplace becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of a steady and experienced hand at the helm of maritime trade and logistics cannot be overstated. And now, more than ever, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is cementing its position as a pivotal player in this international matrix.
With a coastline stretching approximately 3,400 kilometers, the Arabian Gulf accounts for 20% of the world’s energy supplies transported via maritime trade. It is no surprise then, that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s recent announcement of its re-elected membership in the prestigious International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for a successive term in 2024-2025 is a commendable accomplishment. This accomplishment serves as evidence of the Kingdom’s leadership in promoting marine sustainability on a global scale.
In a milestone for the maritime world, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has received recognition for its compliance to secure and efficient maritime transportation. This is evidenced by its second successive membership in the IMO Council. The Kingdom’s involvement in the IMO reflects its influential position in guiding the evolution of global maritime systems. This further confirms its commitment to reinforcing maritime security and sustainability worldwide.
Securing a position within the IMO Council presents the Kingdom with new opportunities to nurture its local maritime environment. Participation in the IMO not only offers a fertile ground for continual advancement within maritime transportation and logistics but also marks a catalyst for overall domestic development.
As the Kingdom works towards a greener future, it supports numerous worldwide marine sustainability initiatives. Through this approach, the Kingdom aims to foster international collaboration towards a cleaner and more sustainable maritime future. For instance, the Kingdom has developed a $5B green hydrogen project that will supply 600 tons of carbon-free hydrogen daily. Furthermore, the Port of NEOM, located in OXAGON, is the primary seaport of entry to the northwest of Saudi Arabia. When the first container terminal becomes operational in 2025, it will operate at net carbon zero, with 100% renewable energy of wind and solar as its main source of energy.
Prominently featuring within the global maritime landscape, the Saudi naval fleet stands at the frontline regionally and within the top 20 globally. Their prowess in addressing the trials of international logistics and shipping puts them firmly on the map. By 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aims to be among the top ten countries in the LPI logistics services index, increasing the capacity in ports to reach more than 40 million TEUs, and raising the Kingdom’s share in the transshipment market to 45%.
The Kingdom’s active involvement within international maritime organizations is evidenced by Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan’s nomination to chair the IMO Assembly. This nomination bears testimony to the Kingdom’s pivotal role within the international maritime sector and underlines its influence on global decision-making.
Through its national strategy, the Kingdom sets lofty targets to boost its maritime sector. These efforts align with the broader objectives of Vision 2030, further fueling the maritime economy’s growth. The Kingdom has achieved a growth rate of over 77% since 2016, establishing seven integrated logistics zones. Moreover, more than 1,600 Saudi seafarers work onboard ships to serve the world economy, reflecting an increase of up to 25% compared to 2021. The Kingdom continues to invest in the training and development of seafarers.
The Kingdom’s participation in international initiatives such as IMO CARES, GLOFOULING, and GLOLITTER reflects its relentless efforts towards safeguarding the marine environment. These endeavors form a critical component of the Kingdom’s broader strategy towards preserving natural and marine resources.
By its involvement in the IMO, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has set its sights on amplifying its global trade footprint. A key area of focus is enhancing maritime regulations and legislation, further encouraging international collaboration in the maritime sector.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s unwavering dedication to maritime sustainability and development positions it as a key player in the global maritime sector. Its membership in the IMO Council for a successive term marks a significant achievement in this regard. The Kingdom’s efforts towards a greener future, boosting the maritime sector, and protecting the marine environment further reflect its leadership and commitment to advancing the sector.
Clearly, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to set a commendable benchmark, amplifying its influential role within the global maritime sector. With its re-elected membership in the IMO Council, it signifies an integral stride towards the realization of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives and reaffirms its dedication towards maritime security and environmental sustainability. Continually pushing boundaries, the Kingdom demonstrates its unwavering leadership within the maritime transport sector, accentuating the value of international cooperation and advancement towards a brighter, more sustainable, and successful maritime future.
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City: Riyadh
Country: Saudi Arabia
Website: Tga.gov.sa