France Surpasses Saudi Arabia in Trade Balance for the First Time Since 2025
The economic relationship between France and Saudi Arabia is undergoing significant changes as the two countries move beyond their traditional reliance on oil exports. According to Dominique Brunin, director of the Franco-Arab Chamber of Commerce, French exports to Saudi Arabia have surpassed imports since 2025, with $4.5 billion worth of goods being exported compared to around $3.7 billion in imports.
This shift is not just a result of fluctuations in oil prices, but rather a reflection of the transformation underway in Saudi Arabia's economy under its Vision 2030 strategy. The Kingdom is seeking to reduce its dependence on oil revenues and diversify its economy, which is attracting an increasing number of French companies.
Saudi demand for French products is particularly diverse, with aerospace and aerospace components accounting for a significant share, alongside industrial equipment, pharmaceuticals, technology, perfumes, and cosmetics. French companies are seen as having a technological advantage in these sectors, with Veolia being involved in treating waste generated by petrochemical activities and water distribution.