Saudi Arabia Cuts Ozone-Depleting Substances 69%

Saudi Arabia has achieved a 69% phaseout of ozone-depleting substances in the first half of 2026, marking a major step in the Kingdom's environmental efforts to protect the ozone layer and reduce harmful emissions.

Since the start of 2026, more than 8,500 tonnes of ozone-depleting substances and materials regulated under the Montreal Protocol have been cleared. Since 2023, authorities have issued more than 3,200 clearance permits for materials covered by the protocol, reflecting tighter monitoring of imports and controlled substances.

Under current national rules, it is prohibited to import, export, re-export, use, or store controlled ozone-depleting substances without a prior permit from the competent center. Permits or licenses are also required for new or recycled devices, equipment, and products that contain these substances. This framework follows the national environmental law and the executive regulation for ozone-depleting substances and HFCs.

Why it matters

These measures directly affect businesses, importers, and service providers across sectors such as refrigeration and air conditioning, which are widely used in homes and workplaces across the Kingdom. Clear permit requirements help ensure that regulated materials are handled safely and legally.

Saudi Arabia's obligations under the Kigali Amendment include a freeze on HFCs in 2028 and an 85% reduction in HFCs by 2047. The amendment entered into force for the Kingdom on 9 December 2025, aligning national efforts with global commitments to cut substances harmful to the environment.

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