Saudi-Austrian Trade Relations Strengthen as Imports Surge
Bilateral trade shows significant growth, while Austria positions itself to support Saudi Vision 2030.
In a reception held on Wednesday in anticipation of Austrian National Day, Oskar Wustinger, the Austrian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, highlighted the burgeoning economic and trade relations between his country and the Kingdom.
The diplomat emphasized that these relations are underpinned by a 'solid friendship' that encompasses multiple domains of cooperation.
Wustinger noted an impressive escalation in bilateral trade figures, with a 49% rise in exports from Austria to Saudi Arabia in 2024, complemented by a notable 29% increase in imports from Saudi Arabia to Austria.
The growing economic exchange is viewed as a dynamic and important element of their diplomatic ties.
The event was attended by prominent Saudis, including Faisal Al-Sudairy, undersecretary of the Riyadh region, representing Riyadh Governor Prince Faisal bin Bandar.
The Austrian envoy also praised 'Vision 2030,' describing it as 'impressively bold' and expressing admiration for its ambitious goals.
He suggested that Austrian companies, which boast world-leading expertise, are well-positioned to contribute to these objectives.
The ambassador further detailed the Austrian Embassy's efforts through trade missions to Saudi Arabia in sectors such as green technology, infrastructure, mining, tourism, and education.
These areas align with decades of Austrian innovation and could play a significant role in Saudi development plans.
Wustinger also pointed out that there is an increase in the number of Austrian subsidiaries within the Kingdom, with several high-profile companies establishing regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, and another set to open in December.
Wustinger mentioned that tourism has been a mutual growth area, citing a 34% surge in Saudi tourists visiting Austria.
He also noted a rise in the issuance of new visas under an EU Schengen visa scheme revision, facilitating easier access for Saudis.
Furthermore, he highlighted that several Saudi football teams have chosen Austria as a venue for their summer camps, fostering sports diplomacy between the nations.
On the educational front, Saudis are participating actively in executive training programs at the Diplomatic Academy Vienna and through Austrian Leadership Programs organized by Austria's Foreign Ministry.
The diplomat emphasized that these relations are underpinned by a 'solid friendship' that encompasses multiple domains of cooperation.
Wustinger noted an impressive escalation in bilateral trade figures, with a 49% rise in exports from Austria to Saudi Arabia in 2024, complemented by a notable 29% increase in imports from Saudi Arabia to Austria.
The growing economic exchange is viewed as a dynamic and important element of their diplomatic ties.
The event was attended by prominent Saudis, including Faisal Al-Sudairy, undersecretary of the Riyadh region, representing Riyadh Governor Prince Faisal bin Bandar.
The Austrian envoy also praised 'Vision 2030,' describing it as 'impressively bold' and expressing admiration for its ambitious goals.
He suggested that Austrian companies, which boast world-leading expertise, are well-positioned to contribute to these objectives.
The ambassador further detailed the Austrian Embassy's efforts through trade missions to Saudi Arabia in sectors such as green technology, infrastructure, mining, tourism, and education.
These areas align with decades of Austrian innovation and could play a significant role in Saudi development plans.
Wustinger also pointed out that there is an increase in the number of Austrian subsidiaries within the Kingdom, with several high-profile companies establishing regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, and another set to open in December.
Wustinger mentioned that tourism has been a mutual growth area, citing a 34% surge in Saudi tourists visiting Austria.
He also noted a rise in the issuance of new visas under an EU Schengen visa scheme revision, facilitating easier access for Saudis.
Furthermore, he highlighted that several Saudi football teams have chosen Austria as a venue for their summer camps, fostering sports diplomacy between the nations.
On the educational front, Saudis are participating actively in executive training programs at the Diplomatic Academy Vienna and through Austrian Leadership Programs organized by Austria's Foreign Ministry.
