Saudi Arabia and packaging solutions company Sidel have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Paris, France, to explore the development of packaging operations within the kingdom.

The deal was signed during the Saudi minister of industry and mineral resources’ official visit to France.

The MOU was signed by Saudi National Industrial Development Center CEO Saleh AlSolami and Sidel Customer Management AOA executive vice-president Clive Smith.

The deal reflects Saudi Arabia’s intent to attract global partners to localise advanced manufacturing.

It is part of efforts to foster technology transfer within key industrial sectors in the country.

AlSolami said: “Sidel is a global leader in the packaging solutions market and a source of valuable sectoral knowledge.

“This partnership supports our ambition to build globally competitive industrial capabilities across strategic sectors. We welcome partners who share our long-term vision and are ready to invest in Saudi Arabia’s industrial base and people.”

The MOU includes a joint evaluation of establishing local services and training programmes.

This assessment will focus on meeting the needs of the food and beverage packaging market.

The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and private-sector development.

National Industrial Development Program industrial services vice-president Yousef Dhahi said: “Our partnership with Sidel was established after a thorough assessment of market needs and the expectation for significant value-added contributions to manufacturers in Saudi Arabia.

“Sidel has been in high demand among many manufacturers in the food and beverage sector.”

In January this year, Sidel unveiled a packaging solution built for high-speed output, using 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate for still beverages such as water and juice.