Saudi EXIM hosts global experts to tackle evolving trade risks

The Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM) convened global risk experts in Riyadh for the Berne Union’s Country Risk Specialist Meeting, held from November 19 to 21.

The gathering brought together 47 organizations from 33 countries to address critical global trade risks, share best practices, and explore innovative risk management solutions.

Discussions focused on issues such as debt sustainability, geopolitical tensions, and the evolving infrastructure, energy, and critical minerals sectors. Participants also reviewed Saudi Arabia’s National Industrial Strategy, emphasizing economic diversification and local industry growth.

In his opening remarks, Saudi EXIM CEO Eng. Saad bin Abdulaziz Al-Khalb highlighted the importance of collaboration: “Through such meetings, we can turn challenges into strategic opportunities and enhance our resilience in an ever-changing world.” He announced the bank’s completion of an independent country risk model, incorporating advanced tools and machine learning to predict default risks and enhance international cooperation.

Eve Hall, Associate Director at the Berne Union, emphasized the growing complexity of country risk due to global transformations: “The global risk landscape today is highly volatile and interconnected. The initiatives announced by Saudi EXIM, using new technology in risk analysis, provide a fantastic example of effective collaboration.”

Saudi EXIM’s membership in the Berne Union reflects its commitment to strengthening global trade partnerships and supporting Vision 2030 goals of diversifying Saudi Arabia’s economy. The bank continues to enhance non-oil export ecosystems, bridging financial gaps and mitigating export risks.