Saudi Arabia is set to review the barriers to resuming imports from Lebanon, a move that could significantly boost Lebanon's agricultural sector. In 2019, Saudi Arabia emerged as the top destination for Lebanese agricultural exports, accounting for 22.1 percent of the market. This shift comes on the heels of a pivotal visit by Lebanese President Michel Aoun to Riyadh, marking the first visit by a Lebanese head of state to the Saudi capital in eight years.
President Aoun arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday night for his first foreign trip since assuming office in January. On Tuesday, he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler. The two leaders discussed not only the resumption of Lebanese imports but also the potential reactivation of military aid to Lebanon, which Riyadh halted in 2016. This cessation was attributed to the growing influence of Hezbollah within Lebanon.
In April 2021, Saudi Arabia had suspended fruit and vegetable imports from Lebanon due to allegations that shipments were being used for drug smuggling. Riyadh accused Beirut of failing to take adequate action to curb this illegal activity. As part of the broader diplomatic tensions, Saudi Arabia also banned its nationals from visiting Lebanon. However, the kingdom has now announced plans to end this travel ban, signaling a possible thaw in relations.
The talks between Aoun and MBS are seen as a critical step towards mending ties and addressing mutual concerns between the two nations. President Aoun's engagement with Saudi Arabia is part of a broader initiative to bolster Lebanon’s economy and strengthen diplomatic relations in the region.
