ACWA Power, Badeel, and SAPCO reach $3.2bn financial close on 3 solar PV projects
Updated 29 September 2024
Nour El-Shaeri
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s upcoming solar photovoltaic projects — Haden, Muwayh, and Al Khushaybi — have reached financial close, securing a total investment of $3.2 billion.
Spearheading these initiatives is the Kingdom’s energy transition leader, ACWA Power, along with Public Investment Fund-owned Water and Electricity Holding Co., also known as Badeel, and Saudi Aramco Power Co., an Aramco subsidiary.
The projects will deliver a combined solar capacity of 5.5 gigawatts.
These initiatives are part of Saudi Arabia’s National Renewable Energy Program, which is overseen by the Ministry of Energy and is reflected in PIF’s commitment to develop 70 percent of the country’s renewable energy target capacity by 2030.
“Financial closure of the projects signals our dedication and commitment to providing clean, consistent and cost-effective energy. We are grateful to our stakeholders and our financial partners for their invaluable support in enabling us to make this vision a reality,” said Marco Arcelli, CEO of ACWA Power.
The Haden and Muwayh plants, each with a capacity of 2 GW, are located in the Makkah region, while the Al Khushaybi plant, with a capacity of 1.5 GW, is situated in the Qassim region.
The facilities will be jointly owned by Badeel, ACWA Power, and SAPCO, with the Saudi Power Procurement Co. serving as the procurer and off-taker for the projects.
The $2.5 billion senior debt financing for these projects was secured through a consortium of local, regional, and international banks, including Banque Saudi Fransi, Mizuho Bank, and Riyad Bank, as well as the Saudi National Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank, and HSBC.
“Reaching the financial close of these solar PV projects represents a major milestone in our journey to support Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing renewable energy sector and contribute to PIF’s commitment to developing 70 percent of Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy by 2030,” Sultan Al-Nabulsi, acting CEO at Badeel, said.
This financial close follows significant investments by PIF in the renewable energy value chain. In July, PIF announced three new joint ventures to boost local production of wind turbine and solar PV components, with the intention of leveraging the global energy transition and supporting efforts to position Saudi Arabia as a manufacturing hub for the renewables sector.
PIF and its partners are currently developing several projects with a total capacity of 13.6 GW, representing investments of over $9 billion.
These projects include Sudair, Shuaibah 2, Ar Rass 2, Al Kahfah, and Saad 2 and are intended to support local private sector development through increased domestic supply chain participation.
“We are pleased to extend our partnership with ACWA Power and Badeel, providing further impetus for the Kingdom’s rapidly growing renewables sector. Together, we are taking our renewables portfolio to the next level, advancing the energy transition to meet the rising demand for power with fewer emissions,” the Senior VP of New Energies at Saudi Aramco, Waleed Al-Saif, said.
With the addition of these three new projects, ACWA Power’s solar portfolio in Saudi Arabia now includes 14 projects, totaling more than 17.8 GW of combined PV capacity. This brings ACWA Power’s total renewable capacity portfolio to 35 GW.
KARACHI: Hutchison Ports, a subsidiary of Hong Kong conglomerate CK Hutchison Holdings Limited, plans to invest $1 billion in Pakistan to improve its port infrastructure, the Pakistani finance ministry said on Thursday.
The statement came after a delegation of Hutchison Ports, led by its Middle East & Africa Managing Director Andy Tsoi, met Pakistan Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and briefed him about the firm’s 25-year presence in Pakistan.
Hutchison Ports has been operating two terminals, HPKICT and HPSAPT, in Pakistan and has contributed more than Rs225 billion ($804 million) in government revenues and provided employment to a workforce of 5,000 individuals, according to the port operator.
During the meeting with Aurangzeb, Hutchison Ports delegates presented their upcoming investment plan, aimed at upgrading their existing terminals to enhance operational efficiency, logistics connectivity, and automation.
“The investment includes infrastructure development, road improvements to facilitate efficient cargo movement, modernization of HPKICT into a cutting-edge automated terminal, and the development of a 52-hectare logistics park to enhance trade connectivity,” the Pakistani finance ministry said.
“The delegation highlighted that their investment is expected to generate at least USD 4 billion in revenue over the next 25 years through royalty, rent, and tax contributions.”
The automation upgrades will include remote quay cranes, electric trucks and digitalized gate operations, alongside training programs for maritime professionals in port operations, management and artificial intelligence (AI) applications, according to the statement.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb appreciated Hutchison Ports’ commitment to Pakistan’s maritime sector and acknowledged their significant role in boosting trade and economic activity.
“He reaffirmed the government’s support for strategic investments that contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth and infrastructure development,” the finance ministry said.
The development comes amid Pakistan’s efforts to boost trade and seek international partnerships to expand its maritime activities.
On January 22, South Korean shipping company, HMM, launched the India North Europe Express (INX) weekly shipping service in Pakistan, providing the South Asian country direct access to Europe.
The service, launched in collaboration with Ocean Network Express (ONE) container liner and Pakistan’s United Marine Agencies (UMA), will ensure timely and efficient delivery of Pakistani goods to the destined European ports and beyond, according to HMM.
Prior to that, Dubai-based logistics giant DP World, in collaboration with Pakistan’s National Logistics Corporation, launched in Jan. a feeder service to transport shipping containers from Dubai to Karachi, Pakistani state media reported. Pakistani officials and DP World have also finalized terms for a freight corridor project from Karachi Port to the Pipri Marshalling yard in southern Pakistan.
Pakistan is currently on a tricky path to economic recovery since avoiding a default in June 2023. The South Asian country last year secured a new $7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and has been actively pursuing trade and investment opportunities to put the economy back on track.
KARACHI: China’s BYD, the world’s largest New Energy Vehicle (NEV) manufacturer, and Pakistan’s Mega Motor Company (MMC) started delivering vehicles in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad on Friday, with plans to roll out 100 units within the first 48 hours, confirmed their official statement.
The milestone comes after BYD and MMC partnered last year to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) in Pakistan, aiming to accelerate the country’s transition toward sustainable mobility.
BYD, a global leader in battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, has expanded aggressively in Asia, Europe and Latin America. Mega Motor, a subsidiary of Pakistan’s Hub Power Company (HUBCO), is spearheading the local manufacturing, distribution and sales of BYD-branded vehicles.
“It is an honor to embark on this crucial development chapter in Pakistan,” said Lei Jian, BYD country head in Pakistan.
“BYD has long been dedicated to fulfilling people’s aspirations for a better life through technological innovation,” he continued. “We firmly believe that BYD’s new energy vehicles and technologies are destined to make even greater contributions to Pakistan’s green development journey.”
This handout photo, released by China’s BYD auto company on February 28, 2025, shows BYD Experience and Care Centers in Islamabad. (BYD Pakistan/Handout)
The companies have launched BYD Experience and Care Centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, offering customers access to their advanced automobiles.
he initial rollout includes models such as SEAL and ATTO 3, with plans to establish 15 centers across Pakistan this year to expand accessibility.
“We are thrilled to begin vehicle deliveries across Pakistan,” said Danish Khaliq, VP Sales and Strategy at MMC. “This marks the beginning of an exciting journey for BYD and our customers, as we introduce world-class NEV technology to drive Pakistan toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
NEVs refer to alternative-fuel vehicles that rely on electric, hybrid, hydrogen, or other non-traditional power sources instead of conventional gasoline or diesel engines.
Saudi Arabia’s non-oil exports to China surge 70% as trade ties deepen: GASTAT
Updated 28 February 2025
Nirmal Narayanan
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s non-oil exports to China reached SR3.68 billion ($980 million) in December, representing a rise of 69.58 percent compared to the previous month, the latest official data showed.
According to the General Authority for Statistics, the Kingdom exported plastic and rubber goods valued at SR1.12 billion, followed by chemical products at SR1.11 billion and transport parts at SR1.02 billion.
Non-oil shipments from Saudi Arabia to China amounted to SR2.17 billion in November, while the amount was SR2.35 billion in October and SR1.73 billion in September.
The strong flow of the Kingdom’s non-oil goods to the Asian country underlines the strengthening bilateral relations between both nations, with Saudi Arabia being the largest trading partner of China in the Middle East since 2001.
China and Saudi Arabia are strategic partners in various other sectors such as energy and finance, as well as the Belt and Road Initiative.
The rise in non-oil exports also signifies the progress of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification journey, as the Kingdom is on a path to reduce its decades-long reliance on oil revenues.
Affirming the growth of Saudi Arabia’s non-oil private sector, the Kingdom’s Purchasing Managers’ Index reached 60.5 in January, the highest level in 10 years, and the top among the Middle East nations, according to the Riyad Bank Saudi Arabia PMI survey compiled by S&P Global.
In the UAE, the PMI stood at 55 in January, while it was 53.4 in Kuwait, 50.2 in Qatar and 50.7 in Egypt.
Any PMI readings above 50 indicate growth of the non-oil private sector, while readings below the number signal contraction.
Chinese President Xi Jinping with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in December 2022. File
UAE the favorite destination for Saudi non-oil goods
According to the GASTAT report, Saudi Arabia’s Arab neighbor UAE was the top destination for the Kingdom’s non-oil exports, with outbound shipments to the Emirates reaching SR6.46 billion in December, representing a decline of 9.90 percent compared to the previous month.
The authority revealed that the Kingdom exported machinery and mechanical appliances worth SR3.15 billion in December, while outbound shipments of transport parts amounted to SR1.32 billion.
In December, Saudi Arabia also exported chemical products valued at SR426.8 million to the UAE, followed by plastic and rubber goods worth SR320.2 million.
India was the third favorite destination for Saudi Arabia’s non-oil goods in December, with exports to the Asian nation reaching SR1.86 billion, marking a decline of 26 percent compared to the previous month.
Other top destinations for Saudi Arabia’s non-energy goods were the US, with a value of SR1.64 billion, Bahrain at SR1.19 billion and Turkiye at SR902.7 million.
In December, the Kingdom also exported non-hydrocarbon products to Egypt valued at SR888 million, while outbound shipments to Belgium stood at SR826.7 million and Kuwait at SR703.7 million.
Overall, Saudi Arabia’s non-oil exports stood at SR29.45 billion in December, representing an 18.1 percent rise compared to the same month in 2023.
In November, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Al-Ibrahim revealed that non-oil activities account for 52 percent of the Kingdom’s gross domestic product.
The minister added that the Kingdom’s non-oil economy has been growing at 20 percent since the launch of the Vision 2030.
In December, Saudi Arabia exported non-energy goods worth SR19.33 million via sea, while outbound shipments through land and air totaled SR5.38 billion and SR4.73 billion, respectively.
According to GASTAT, Jeddah Islamic Sea Port was the main exit point for Saudi Arabia’s non-hydrocarbon products with goods valued at SR3.92 billion.
King Fahad Industrial Sea Port in Jubail handled goods worth SR3.65 billion, followed by Ras Tanura Sea Port, which processed outbound shipments amounting to SR2.03 billion.
In terms of exit points via land, Al-Batha Port handled goods valued at SR2.04 billion, while products worth SR671.5 million passed through Al-Hadithah Port.
Among airports, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh handled outbound shipments worth SR2.46 billion in December, followed by King Abdulaziz International Airport at SR2.09 billion.
Overall merchandise exports
Despite the rise in non-oil outbound shipments, Saudi Arabia’s overall merchandise exports decreased by 2.8 percent to reach SR94.29 billion in December compared to the same month of the previous year, driven by oil production cuts as mandated by OPEC.
The share of oil exports from total outbound goods also decreased from 74.3 percent in December 2023 to 68.8 percent during the same month in 2024.
Saudi Arabia’s merchandise exports to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries amounted to SR13.68 billion in the final month of 2024, representing a rise of 6.04 percent compared to December 2023.
Exports to Asian non-Arab non-Islamic countries stood at SR49.39 billion in December, followed by outbound shipments to North America at SR4.73 billion, South America at SR1.47 billion and the EU at SR8.73 billion.
In December, Saudi Arabia’s overall merchandise exports to China amounted to SR12.25 billion, followed by South Korea at SR9.80 billion, Japan at SR9.71 billion and India at SR9.11 billion.
Imports up
According to GASTAT, Saudi Arabia’s overall imports witnessed a 27.1 percent year-on-year rise in December, reaching SR79.03 billion, while the surplus of trade balance decreased by 56.1 percent, reaching SR15.26 billion.
The authority revealed that the Kingdom welcomed goods valued at SR18.60 billion from China, led by mechanical appliances and electrical equipment valued at SR7.73 billion.
Saudi Arabia also imported transport products from China worth SR2.60 billion, followed by base metal products at SR2.04 billion and textiles valued at SR1.06 billion.
In December, imports from the US amounted to SR7.17 billion, while inbound shipments from the UAE and India were valued at SR4.30 billion and SR3.81 billion, respectively.
Saudi Arabia also imported goods worth SR3.75 billion from Germany and SR3.60 billion from Japan.
Italian imports to Saudi Arabia in December amounted to SR3.19 billion, while inbound shipments from the UK totaled SR3.03 billion.
GASTAT revealed that inbound shipments valued at SR45.72 billion reached the Kingdom via sea, while imports amounting to SR9.46 billion and SR23.85 billion came via land and air, respectively.
King Abdulaziz Sea Port in Dammam was the leading entry point for imports in December, with the facility handling goods valued at SR22.01 billion, or 27.8 percent of total inbound shipments.
According to the report, Jeddah Islamic Sea Port handled inbound shipments valued at SR15.41 billion, followed by the King Abdullah Sea Port at SR1.35 billion and King Fahd International Sea Port at SR1.20 billion.
Through land, Al-Batha Port and Riyadh Dry Port processed incoming goods valued at SR4.10 billion and SR2.84 billion, respectively.
Through air, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh welcomed inbound shipments worth SR11.62 billion in December.
King Abdulaziz International Airport and King Fahad International Airport also handled imports valued at SR7.07 billion and SR4.55 billion, respectively.
Can Saudi Arabia conquer global uncertainty and become a financial giant?
Kingdom has to continue reform initiatives, experts tell Arab News
Expanding financial markets, diversification, digital transformation
Updated 28 February 2025
Miguel Hadchity
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s financial markets are on a sharp upward trajectory despite challenging global economic trends, experts have told Arab News.
Market volatility across the world — as seen by the S&P 500 dropping below 6,000 on Wednesday — together with US President Donald Trump’s policies prompting oil market uncertainty, and continuing supply chain disruptions, are increasing investment risks.
However, the Kingdom’s economic resilience, backed by Vision 2030’s diversification efforts and strong regulatory reforms, has helped Saudi Arabia mitigate these challenges.
In 2024, the economy rebounded with a 1.3 percent growth, driven by a 4.6 percent increase in non-oil activities, despite a decline in oil activities.
Saudi Arabia’s financial ecosystem is poised for even greater growth, but the key question remains: Can it continue to solidify its position as a global financial hub in such an unpredictable environment?
Vikas Papriwal, leader of FTI Consulting Middle East and Africa, told Arab News the Kingdom is very much in charge of its own destiny in this regard.
“The key to future-proofing against oil market volatility and maintaining leadership in the global energy industry is for Saudi Arabia to continue to place significant emphasis on researching, developing, and innovating in the space of renewable and sustainable energy and be leaders in the global energy transition,” he said.
Vikas Papriwal, leader of FTI Consulting Middle East and Africa. Supplied
Saudi Arabia’s progress can also be seen in its extensive regulatory reforms. The country has worked hard to ensure that its financial markets align with international best practices, providing greater transparency, stability, and ease of access for investors.
“Reforms that can fortify the Kingdom’s position as a financial powerhouse include further easing processes for operating and starting businesses, particularly through legal and tax reforms,” said Papriwal.
Rezwan Shafique, principal of financial services at Arthur D. Little, told Arab News that those reforms are just the starting line, emphasizing that the path toward becoming a powerhouse is now underway.
“Government and regulatory reforms, such as Companies Law, CMA (Capital Market Authority) strategic plans, and MISA (Ministry of Investment) guidelines, have laid the groundwork by improving corporate transparency, stability, and predictability. The Kingdom is now in a phase to communicate opportunities to global players,” Shafique added.
He noted that Saudi Arabia has already made progress in this area, highlighting that the country’s share in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index has risen to 4 percent from 2.7 percent in 2019. He also pointed out that foreign ownership in the Saudi Exchange has increased 25-fold over the past five years, reaching $100 billion, signaling expanding opportunities for global investors.
“Gaining traction on new listings and becoming a multi-jurisdictional player should be a key focus. A number of factors will need to converge, including Saudi Arabia actively forging ties between itself, China, Singapore, and African nations through strategic partnerships,” he said.
Indeed, Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lead the region in financial services is evident. Over the past few years, its exchange, Tadawul, has made tremendous strides, earning a spot among the top 10 global stock markets.
Its market capitalization reached $2.9 trillion as of late 2024, with the Kingdom continuing to attract significant foreign investments, especially in light of the world’s largest initial public offering — Aramco’s listing in 2019, which raised over $25 billion.
“Tadawul’s inclusion in major global indices like MSCI and FTSE has increased foreign investor participation, while the size and scale of recent initial public offerings have showcased the Kingdom’s ability to attract significant global capital,” said Serkan Teker, financial services partner at Deloitte Middle East.
He added that to rival global giants such as Wall Street and London, Saudi Arabia must continue evolving its capital markets by enhancing liquidity, diversifying sector representation, and improving transparency.
Teker also highlighted how the banking sector has been a significant driver of the Kingdom’s non-oil gross domestic product expansion. It posted an “impressive annual growth of almost 11 percent between 2018 and the beginning of 2023, maintaining strong asset quality with non-performing loans gradually declining since the first shock waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Beyond the financial sector, Saudi Arabia’s broader economic strategy also focuses on creating new business environments and fostering innovation to attract foreign investors.
Teker said: “The Kingdom could also look into creating new free zones and specialized economic zones for key areas of strategic focus, such as healthcare, biotech, and information and communications technology. Additionally, continued investment in transformative urban projects that allow KSA to act as a central hub for commerce and hospitality will further strengthen its position on the global stage.”
The Deloitte partner went on to explain that Saudi Arabia’s rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, fintech, and digital banking are transforming the country into a global innovation hub. And he cited regulatory initiatives including the FinTech Sandbox and the adoption of Open Banking as helping the Kingdom become a magnet for tech startups and international investors.
He added that initiatives such as digital-only banks and AI-driven solutions in finance and healthcare are positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of cutting-edge financial technology.
The Kingdom’s fintech market, in particular, has experienced exponential growth — up 25 percent in 2024 according to the Saudi Central Bank — reflecting the increasing importance of digital transformation to the economy.
“Saudi Arabia is making significant investments in AI and related infrastructure, including a $40 billion tech fund and targeted investments in AI companies and startups. The launch of the Saudi Artificial Intelligence Authority is expected to accelerate innovation across key industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing,” FTI Consulting’s Papriwal added.
Tadawul, however, is not without its challenges. Geopolitical instability in the Middle East remains a persistent concern, and the volatility of global markets — particularly oil price fluctuations — continues to affect the broader economy.
“Tadawul needs to evolve in two ways: first, from a domestic exchange to multi-regional, and second, toward a technology company enabling financial services firms to develop and execute investment strategies,” said Arthur D. Little’s Shafique.
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia’s ability to expand its financial markets, further diversify its economy, and continue its digital transformation will be crucial in maintaining its upward trajectory.
Rezwan Shafique, principal of financial services at Arthur D. Little. Supplied
The Kingdom is already focusing on innovation, sustainable finance, and digital platforms as part of its broader Vision 2030 agenda. This vision positions Saudi Arabia not only as a regional player but also as a leader in global financial markets.
Teker emphasized that Saudi Arabia can strengthen its claim as a global financial powerhouse by expanding digital and financial inclusion through digital banking solutions and financial literacy programs would help reach underserved segments of the population.
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of deepening capital market reforms, introducing advanced financial instruments, and attracting foreign participation to enhance liquidity and diversify investment options.
Teker also explained that by leveraging regulatory frameworks, fostering partnerships between banks and fintech firms, and attracting international digital players, Saudi Arabia can establish itself as a global fintech hub and strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving financial services sector.
“We believe some of these forward-looking actions, aligned with Vision 2030’s ambitious goals, can further propel Saudi Arabia into global financial leadership while driving inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” he said.
Oil Updates — crude on track for 1st monthly drop since November on Trump tariff concerns
Updated 28 February 2025
Reuters
LONDON: Oil prices fell more than 1 percent on Friday and were headed for their first monthly drop since November, as markets braced for Washington’s tariff threats and Iraq’s decision to resume oil exports from the Kurdistan region.
Uncertainty surrounding OPEC’s production resumption plans in April and ongoing talks to end the war in Ukraine also weighed on investor sentiment.
The more active May Brent crude futures slipped 81 cents, or 1.1 percent, to $72.76 a barrel by 5:10 p.m. Saudi time. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were at $69.55 a barrel, down 80 cents, also 1.1 percent.
Front-month Brent, which expires on Friday, traded at $73.10, down 94 cents.
Both benchmarks are on track to post their first monthly decline in three months.
Baghdad is set to announce the resumption of oil exports from the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region through the Iraq-Turkiye pipeline, according to an Iraqi oil ministry statement.
Iraq will export 185,000 barrels per day through state oil marketer SOMO, and that quantity will gradually increase, the ministry said.
Despite the expected announcement, eight international oil firms operating in the Kurdistan region said they would not be resuming exports on Friday as there was no clarity on commercial agreements and guarantees of payment for past and future exports.
“The resumption of exports raises questions about how Iraq will comply with its OPEC+ obligations, having already regularly produced above its quota,” said Harry Tchilinguirian, head of research at Onyx Capital Group.
“If OPEC+ delays a 120,000 bpd return of voluntary cut barrels starting in April, then the increase in Iraq will exceed that restraint,” he added.
OPEC+ is debating whether to raise oil output in April as planned or freeze it as its members struggle to read the global supply picture, eight OPEC+ sources said.
Economists at Fitch’s BMI research unit said market participants are struggling to gauge the impact of all the energy-related policy announcements made by the Trump administration this month.
US President Donald Trump on Thursday said his proposed 25 percent tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods will take effect on March 4, along with an extra 10 percent duty on Chinese imports.
Traders are reducing risks amid rising volatility sparked by Trump stepping up the tariffs war, not least against China, significantly raising concerns about global demand, said Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank.
A tariff war could slow global growth, spark inflation and, in turn, suppress crude demand.
A Reuters poll showed Brent would average $74.63 per barrel in 2025, while US crude is projected to average $70.66.
Still, oil prices climbed more than 2 percent on Thursday as supply concerns resurfaced after Trump revoked a license granted to US oil major Chevron to operate in Venezuela.
