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- 19k "Made In Saudi" Products Reach 180 Countries; China Seeks Gulf FTA; DIFC Crosses 100 Firms Mark
19k "Made In Saudi" Products Reach 180 Countries; China Seeks Gulf FTA; DIFC Crosses 100 Firms Mark
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Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Happy Tuesday everyone!
The Gulf region's economic transformation accelerates on multiple fronts today. Saudi Arabia's "Made in Saudi" program has expanded to 19,000 products reaching 180 countries, with non-oil exports hitting a record $81.8 billion in the first half of 2025. Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is urging Gulf nations to finalize their 20-year free trade agreement negotiations, citing rising global protectionism. In Dubai, the financial hub DIFC now hosts 102 hedge funds—double the number since early 2023—as major players like Baron Capital and BlueCrest establish presence.
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"Made In Saudi" Products Reach 19,000 Items Exported To 180 Countries: Industry Minister Bandar Alkhorayef
What’s it About?
Saudi Arabia's "Made in Saudi" program now encompasses 19,000 products from 3,700 registered companies, shipping to 180 countries worldwide. The first half of 2025 achieved record non-oil exports of SR307 billion ($81.8 billion), following 2024's total of SR515 billion, according to Industry Minister Bandar Alkhorayef.
Why it Matters?
Launched in 2021 under Vision 2030, the program strengthens local manufacturing competitiveness globally. The Saudi Exports Development Authority has signed 108 export agreements, registered 433 importers, and licensed nine export houses trading SR390 million across 21 countries, demonstrating systematic infrastructure development for diversifying beyond oil revenues.
What’s Next?
Saudi Exports continues strategic partnerships, recently leading 50+ construction firms to Dubai's Big 5 exhibition and participating in December's Momentum 2025 conference. The program focuses on expanding financing channels and market access, positioning itself as a central driver of Saudi Arabia's economic transformation and industrial diversification goals.
China Urges Gulf Nations To Seal Free Trade Agreement Amid Rising Protectionism
What’s it About?
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pressed the Gulf Cooperation Council to finalize their 20-year free trade agreement negotiations during his Middle East tour. Meeting GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi in Riyadh Sunday, Wang cited rising protectionism and attacks on free trade as reasons for urgency, stating conditions are "basically mature."
Why it Matters?
A China-GCC FTA would send a "strong signal defending multilateralism" while deepening cooperation in economy, trade, and investment. China positioned Saudi Arabia as a "priority for Middle East diplomacy," agreeing to closer coordination on regional issues including Palestinian settlement and Iran-Saudi relations, plus cooperation on energy and green transformation.
What’s Next?
Both nations agreed to mutual visa exemptions for diplomatic passport holders. Wang emphasized China's role as the "most reliable partner" in Saudi Arabia's revitalization and pledged to "inject more stabilizing factors" for regional peace. The tour continues to Jordan, advancing China's strategic positioning in Middle Eastern diplomacy and economic integration.
Dubai's Hedge Fund Hub, DIFC, Doubles To Over 100 Firms In Two Years
What’s it About?
Dubai International Financial Centre now hosts 102 hedge funds, double the number since early 2023. Major players like Oak Hill Advisors, Baron Capital, and BlueCrest Capital have registered this year, joining giants Millennium Management and ExodusPoint. Nearly 80% manage over $1 billion in assets.
Why it Matters?
Tax-free income, strategic timezone positioning, and access to $1 trillion in family office capital make Dubai increasingly attractive. The city's financial hub approaches 500 wealth management firms total, fueled by relocating millionaires and sovereign wealth proximity, though it remains far behind New York's 1,500 hedge fund headquarters.
What’s Next?
Dubai is constructing three new DIFC towers for hedge fund startups while considering significant regulatory changes. Abu Dhabi plans $16 billion in expansion for offices and luxury housing. At least five managers from top global funds are launching their own firms in the UAE.
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