RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s overall merchandise exports increased by 83.4% in May 2022 compared to May 2021. The value of exports amounted to SAR144.1 billion in May 2022, up from SAR78.6 billion in May 2021, the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) revealed. This increase originated mainly from oil exports, which rose by SAR59.7 billion or 105.5% in the same period. The share of oil exports in total exports increased from 72.0% in May 2021 to 80.6% in May 2022. Compared to April 2022, total merchandise exports increased by SAR6.4 billion or 4.7%.

Non-oil exports (including re-exports) increased by 26.7% year-on-year in May 2022, rising to SAR27.9 billion from SAR22.0 billion in May 2021.

Merchandise imports increased by 21.8% (SAR9.6 billion) in May 2022. The value of imports amounted to SAR53.9 billion in May 2022 compared to SAR44.2 billion in May 2021.

GASTAT is the only official statistical reference for statistical data and information in Saudi Arabia. It executes all the statistical work, in addition to the technical oversight of the statistical sector. It also designs and implements field surveys, conducts statistical studies and research, and analyzes data and information, in addition to the documentation and archiving works of information and statistical data that cover all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia from its multiple sources. — SPA