Minister Hwej Discusses Shipping, Investment Forum, and Halal Products with Saudis

Minister of Economy and Trade, Mohamed Al-Hwej, recently met with Hamad bin Abdullah Al-Shehri, the Chargé d’Affaires of Saudi Arabia to Libya, to discuss key initiatives aimed at enhancing economic cooperation between the two nations. The primary focus of their discussion was on activating commercial maritime shipping between Libyan and Saudi ports to boost trade exchange.

In their meeting at the Ministry’s Tripoli headquarters on May 16, Al-Hwej and Al-Shehri explored the mechanisms necessary to facilitate regular maritime shipping routes. This initiative aims to streamline the transportation of goods, reduce shipping times, and ultimately increase the volume of trade between Libya and Saudi Arabia. Both parties emphasized the importance of establishing reliable and efficient shipping lines to support this objective.

Another key topic of discussion was the organization of the Libyan-Saudi Investment Forum, slated to take place in Tripoli later this year. This forum aims to provide a platform for businesses from both countries to explore investment opportunities, forge partnerships, and showcase their products. An accompanying exhibition of Saudi products will highlight the diverse range of goods available, fostering greater economic collaboration and mutual benefit.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the cooperation between the Ministry’s Halal Products Committee and the Saudi Centre for Halal Products. Recognizing the growing global demand for Halal products, both sides agreed on the importance of adhering to standard specifications and requirements for Halal certification. This collaboration aims to ensure that products meet the strict standards of Islamic dietary laws, thereby facilitating smoother trade in Halal goods.

To enhance the quality and authenticity of Halal products, Al-Hwej and Al-Shehri discussed the exchange of information and data regarding Islamic slaughter centers. This exchange is crucial for maintaining the integrity of Halal certifications and ensuring that both Libyan and Saudi products meet the highest standards. By sharing best practices and technical knowledge, both countries aim to strengthen their positions in the global Halal market.

The initiatives discussed during the meeting between Al-Hwej and Al-Shehri are expected to have a broad economic impact. By enhancing trade routes, organizing investment forums, and focusing on high-demand sectors such as Halal products, Libya and Saudi Arabia are poised to significantly boost their economic ties. This cooperation is in line with broader economic goals and the vision for increased regional integration and prosperity.

In conclusion, Minister Al-Hwej and Chargé d’Affaires Al-Shehri reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic cooperation between Libya and Saudi Arabia. Their focus on Halal products, in particular, underscores the importance of this sector in their bilateral trade strategy. As both nations continue to work together, these initiatives are expected to yield substantial benefits for their economies and contribute to the overall growth and stability of the region.

By leveraging their combined expertise and resources, Libya and Saudi Arabia aim to create a more dynamic and interconnected economic landscape, with Halal products playing a pivotal role in this transformation.