Saudi Arabia is stepping up efforts to expand industrial base as it seeks to diversify sources of economic growth through greater private-sector participation in industrial development, with the Saudi Industry Forum 2026 focusing on investment and cooperation across the sector.

The second edition of the Forum, which opened today (September 14) and will run until September 16, will act as a major platform bringing together various components of the industrial ecosystem.

Saudi Arabia is seeking greater private-sector participation in industrial development as the kingdom works to expand non-oil economic activity, reported SPA.

The forum highlights growth and investment opportunities and strengthens integration between the public and private sectors. It also aims to enhance the competitiveness of Saudi industry, reinforce its contribution to diversifying the national economy, and advance the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

In a special interview with the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Secretary-General of the Federation of Saudi Chambers Eng. Sultan Al Musallam affirmed the growing importance of the industrial sector in the kingdom's efforts to diversify the national economy. 

It is among the key sectors on which the Kingdom relies to diversify sources of gross domestic product (GDP), he stated. 

According to him, Saudi Industry Forum provides an important platform for creating further opportunities for the sector's growth and keeping pace with its rapid developments.

Al Musallam highlighted the forum's outcomes and the momentum within the industrial ecosystem. 

He also commended the role of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, represented by the National Industrial Committee, in supporting this momentum and strengthening communication and cooperation among various stakeholders in the sector.