RIYADH: According to official figures, Saudi Arabia’s industrial production increased by 3.2 percent in May compared to April, driven mostly by improvements in manufacturing, utilities, and mining. According to preliminary data issued by the General Authority for Statistics, despite the monthly increase, industrial activity remained lower than a year earlier, down 18.7%, as lower oil-related production continued to weigh on the Kingdom’s overall performance.
The information was released in the wake of the US-Iran war, which increased economic instability by upsetting regional supply chains and industrial activity throughout the Middle East. Preliminary results indicate a decrease of 18.7 percent in the Industrial Production Index in May 2026 compared to the same month of the previous year, affected by the decline in mining and quarrying activity and manufacturing activity, according to GASTAT’s most recent report.
According to the authorities, industrial activity fell by 6.2% in May, while mining and quarrying activity decreased by 28.6% year over year. Coca-Cola and refined petroleum products saw a 16.7% decrease in production, which was the largest decline in manufacturing among major industries. While food production decreased by 3.5%, chemical production and chemical products decreased by 4%. In contrast, the production of basic metals increased by 12.8% each year.
Also Read:
What a 10-Day Ceasefire Between Israel and Lebanon Could Mean for Regional Stability
Alliance Française Khobar celebrates Saudi women entrepreneurs.
