SHERIDAN, WYOMING – May 11, 2025 – Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step toward bolstering its advanced manufacturing capabilities with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global packaging solutions leader Sidel. The agreement, signed in Paris during the official visit of the Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, aims to explore establishing Sidel operations within the Kingdom, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to localize industrial technology and support Vision 2030 economic transformation goals.
The MoU was formalized by Eng. Saleh AlSolami, CEO of the Saudi National Industrial Development Center (NIDC), and Clive Smith, Executive Vice President Customer Management AOA at Sidel. The signing was witnessed by His Excellency Bandar Alkhorayef, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, and Pietro Cassani, CEO of Sidel. This strategic collaboration sets the stage for deepened industrial cooperation, technology transfer, and sustainable sectoral growth in Saudi Arabia.
Aligning with Vision 2030 Industrial Goals
The agreement underscores Saudi Arabia’s determination to attract global industrial leaders to invest in local operations, support workforce development, and accelerate the transition toward high-value, knowledge-based manufacturing. By localizing packaging capabilities, the Kingdom aims to meet the expanding demands of its food and beverage sector while reducing reliance on imported technologies.
“Sidel is a global leader in the packaging solutions market and a source of valuable sectoral knowledge. This partnership supports our ambition to build globally competitive industrial capabilities across strategic sectors. We welcome partners who share our long-term vision and are ready to invest in Saudi Arabia’s industrial base and people,” said Eng. Saleh AlSolami, CEO of NIDC.
Strategic Advantages for the Packaging Sector
The MoU includes a joint feasibility study to evaluate the establishment of localized services and innovation programs tailored to Saudi Arabia’s fast-evolving food and beverage packaging industry. This initiative aligns with growing regional demand for sustainable, technologically advanced packaging solutions.
Key strategic advantages expected from the partnership include:
- Localized manufacturing of advanced packaging equipment and services
- Improved supply chain responsiveness and operational agility for regional manufacturers
- Knowledge transfer and workforce development through Sidel’s expertise
- Support for sustainable packaging practices aligned with global ESG standards
Strong Industry Demand and Stakeholder Alignment
Sidel’s entry into the Saudi market follows a comprehensive evaluation of domestic industry requirements, driven by mounting demand from manufacturers seeking localized, value-added packaging solutions. The agreement builds upon the broader objectives of the Saudi delegation’s visit to France, which also included meetings with executives from Airbus, Safran, and Lesaffre to strengthen industrial partnerships.
“Our partnership with Sidel was established after a thorough assessment of market needs and the expectation for significant value-added contributions to manufacturers in Saudi Arabia. Sidel has been in high demand among many manufacturers in the food and beverage sector,” said Eng. Yousef Dhahi, Vice President for Industrial Services in the National Industrial Development Program.
Creating a Competitive Industrial Ecosystem
Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a regional hub for industrial excellence, offering global investors a competitive landscape with access to incentives, infrastructure, and strategic partnerships. By fostering relationships with global leaders like Sidel, the Kingdom is not only enhancing its domestic capabilities but also strengthening its position in the global manufacturing value chain.
To learn more about Saudi Arabia’s industrial development initiatives, contact the National Industrial Development Center or your local trade representative.