Saudi Arabia Joins Key Customs Pacts to Boost Trade

Saudi Arabia Joins Key Customs Pacts to Boost Trade

Saudi Arabia's accession to the World Customs Organization's Kyoto and Istanbul Conventions marks a significant step towards simplifying customs procedures and promoting trade facilitation. The Kyoto Convention focuses on standardizing modern customs procedures, while the Istanbul Convention facilitates the temporary import of goods. Both aim to reduce trade costs, improve efficiency, and foster global economic development. Saudi Arabia's membership is expected to accelerate global trade facilitation efforts.

Saudi Arabia Extends VAT Penalty Waiver for Amazon Sellers

Saudi Arabia Extends VAT Penalty Waiver for Amazon Sellers

Amazon reminds sellers that the Saudi VAT penalty waiver policy is ending in 17 days! VAT registration is mandatory for sellers using FBA in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Ensure you register for a Saudi tax ID before November 30th to avoid penalties for late registration, filing, or payment. Compliant operations are crucial for expanding in the Middle East market. Seeking professional tax services is highly recommended.

Middle East Embraces Halloween As Saudi Arabia Joins Trend

Middle East Embraces Halloween As Saudi Arabia Joins Trend

Halloween is quietly gaining popularity in the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia, where it's experiencing a surge in popularity. This article analyzes the reasons behind Halloween's rise in Saudi Arabia, consumer spending patterns on costumes, candy, decorations, and the enthusiastic participation in Halloween-related activities. It reveals the trend of cultural integration and lifestyle changes in the Middle East driven by events like Halloween. The increasing acceptance and celebration of Halloween highlight a shift in cultural norms and consumer behavior within the region.

Saudi Arabia WCO Enhance Trade Rules in MENA Region

Saudi Arabia WCO Enhance Trade Rules in MENA Region

Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the WCO, hosted a workshop to enhance advance ruling capabilities among MENA customs administrations. The workshop aimed to promote trade facilitation by highlighting the benefits of advance rulings, including reduced costs, increased efficiency, and minimized disputes. The event underscored the importance of advance rulings in streamlining customs procedures and fostering a more predictable and transparent trade environment within the region.

Saudi Arabia Updates SASO 2902 Energy Efficiency Standards for Exports

Saudi Arabia Updates SASO 2902 Energy Efficiency Standards for Exports

Saudi Arabia's energy efficiency standard SASO 2902 has undergone a significant update, impacting exports of products like LED lamps. Companies need to pay attention to the implementation of the new standard SASO 2902:2018/AMD2:2023 and promptly change or reapply for certificates. The label change upgrade window closed on May 31, 2025. It is crucial to be aware of the mandatory effective and enforcement dates to ensure products comply with Saudi energy efficiency standards and avoid the risk of detention.

Alibaba Bans Alcohol Sales to Saudi Arabia in Compliance Move

Alibaba Bans Alcohol Sales to Saudi Arabia in Compliance Move

Alibaba.com has announced a new regulation prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages and food products to Saudi Arabia. This rule, effective February 18, 2025, is based on Saudi Arabian law and Islamic Sharia, which forbids the sale of alcohol. Merchants are advised to review existing orders and adjust their sales strategies accordingly. Alibaba.com will strengthen its monitoring and impose penalties on violators. This measure aims to ensure that platform merchants comply with Saudi Arabian laws and highlights the importance of compliant operations in cross-border e-commerce.