Saudi Arabia remains India’s fourth-largest trade partner, while India ranks as the second-largest trading partner for Saudi Arabia. In the fiscal year 2024–25, bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 41.88 billion. Of this, the chemicals and petrochemicals sector accounted for approximately 10% of the total trade volume, amounting to nearly USD 4.5 billion.
Both sides acknowledged the immense potential for growth in this area, recognizing Saudi Arabia’s expertise in petrochemicals and India’s growing strength in specialty chemicals. The discussions centered on how to combine these complementary capabilities to develop a sustainable, innovation-driven partnership.
Focus on Investment and Industrial Collaboration
The meeting placed strong emphasis on investment opportunities across the chemicals and petrochemicals value chain. India invited Saudi investors to explore its Petroleum, Chemical, and Petrochemical Investment Regions (PCPIRs), which are designed to promote large-scale industrial clusters with integrated infrastructure for the sector.
Officials discussed potential joint ventures between leading companies in both nations to expand manufacturing, technology exchange, and downstream production. Enhanced collaboration, they noted, would help both countries build resilient supply chains and reduce dependence on imports from other regions.
Saudi representatives expressed interest in India’s rapidly growing chemicals market and its policy framework encouraging foreign direct investment (FDI). Both sides agreed to streamline regulatory procedures to facilitate smoother business partnerships and technology transfer.
Collaboration in R&D and Skill Development
Recognizing the need for innovation and sustainable growth, both nations agreed to enhance cooperation in research and development (R&D) and skill development. This includes promoting academic and industry linkages, knowledge exchange, and workforce training tailored to future technologies in the chemical and petrochemical industries.
India’s focus on green chemistry, circular economy models, and environmentally friendly production aligns with Saudi Arabia’s diversification goals under its Vision 2030 initiative. The meeting underscored the shared vision of building cleaner, more efficient production ecosystems that balance economic progress with sustainability.
A Step Toward Strategic Industrial Integration
The discussions concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to building a sustainable and mutually beneficial partnership in chemicals and petrochemicals. The collaboration is expected to boost trade, create jobs, and foster technological advancements benefiting both nations.
This engagement marks another milestone in the growing India–Saudi Arabia partnership, which spans energy, defense, renewable resources, and now advanced industrial collaboration. The meeting’s outcomes reflect the deepening strategic alignment between the two economies and their shared ambition to lead in the global industrial landscape.
Further updates on project collaborations and investment agreements are expected in the coming months as both countries continue to strengthen their trade and industrial ties.