Saudi Trade Surplus Hits $3.8bn in July 2026

Saudi Arabia recorded a merchandise trade surplus of about SAR 14.36 billion (approximately US$3.83 billion) in July 2026, The surplus held despite lower exports and imports compared with the same month a year earlier.

Merchandise exports came in at SAR 84.38 billion, a decline of 17.2% year-on-year, while imports fell 15.4% to SAR 70.02 billion. The overall surplus narrowed by 25% compared with July 2025.

Oil continued to dominate the export mix, accounting for 71.0% of total exports. Oil exports were down 12.8% year-on-year. Non-oil exports slipped 14.8%, with declines in plastics, rubber, and related products.

Why it matters

Trade figures offer a snapshot of the economy that affects residents and businesses alike, from consumer prices to job creation across sectors. A sustained surplus signals that the Kingdom continues to export more goods than it imports, even as global demand shifts.

China remained Saudi Arabia's leading trading partner for both exports and imports during the month, underlining the depth of commercial ties between the two economies. The July numbers are preliminary and may be revised as final data becomes available.

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