Saudi Arabia’s Exports Surge in October on Higher Oil Prices

Saudi Arabia possesses around 17 per cent of the world‘s proven petroleum reserves. The oil and gas sector accounts for about 50 per cent of gross domestic product, and about 70 per cent of export earnings. Apart from petroleum, the Kingdom’s other natural resources include natural gas, iron ore, gold, and copper.

Saudi Arabias oil exports grew more than 123 percent year-on-year in October 2021 or 45.5 billion riyals ($12 billion), and which makes it the world's largest oil exporter benefited from higher crude prices. Data issued by the Saudi General Authority for Statistics showed on Sunday.

The share of oil exports in total exports increased to 77.6 percent during the month from 66.1 percent October 2020, when trade was impacted by lockdown and travels bans due to the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic. Currently The value of exports jumped to 106.2 billion riyals ($28 billion) from 55.9 billion riyals a year ago, according to the kingdoms General Authority for Statistics. The share of oil in total exports rose to 77.6% in October from 66.1%.

The Saudi Arabias economy has regained this year as oil prices soared and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic eased. This month, the kingdom boosted its revenue forecast for next year, with higher crude output and prices poised to deliver the first budget surplus in eight years and the fastest economic growth since 2011.

Saudi Arabia Sees First Budget Surplus Since 2013 as Oil Rises

The value of oil exports rose 123%, or by 45.5 billion riyals, year-on-year in October, according to the statistics authority. Non-oil exports increased 25.5% to 23.8 billion riyals.

What the Oil has gained is about 50% this year with a robust rebound from the pandemic, but the rally has faltered recently, in part due to concerns about omicron. There are some signs of tightening emerging, event hough , with supply disruptions in Libya and Nigeria, while the demand outlook was boosted in recent days by positive news about the severity of omicron.