Riyadh: CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey held a virtual meeting with over 220 representatives from companies operating in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical device sectors to discuss ways to enhance the resilience of local and regional supply chains.
According to Saudi Press Agency, President of the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) Eng. Suliman bin Khalid Al-Mazroua; Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at Saudia Cargo Hashim Alsharif; and representatives from several relevant government entities attended the meeting.
This meeting aligns with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to strengthening supply chain readiness in vital sectors, solidifying its position as a regional logistics hub that supports market stability and the uninterrupted flow of essential products.
Dr. Aljadhey expressed appreciation to government entities and the private sector for their efforts in ensuring supply chain stability. He praised the current level of coordination, noting its role in improving operational efficiency and supply reliability. He specifically highlighted the "Fast Track" initiative, implemented by the SFDA in partnership with Mawani, and its role in facilitating the smooth flow of shipments and optimizing port procedures. The SFDA CEO further noted the strategic partnership between the SFDA and Saudia Cargo, which has supported the supply of vital pharmaceutical products. This collaboration enhances logistical efficiency and ensures the reliable flow of critical health supplies.
He also reviewed the SFDA's ongoing regulatory developments, including streamlined import permit issuance and expedited processing, as well as the prioritization of shipments for essential medicines and medical devices. To ensure continuous operation, Dr. Aljadhey emphasized the SFDA's increased operational readiness at ports of entry. This includes strengthening field capabilities, expanding inspection staff, and activating a 24/7 response center designed to expedite clearance procedures and accelerate shipment movement, all while maintaining rigorous regulatory controls and ensuring business continuity.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Aljadhey stressed that the evolution of supply chains requires sustained, integrated efforts across all stakeholders. Such collaboration is essential to enhancing the efficiency of the national logistics ecosystem and achieving the ambitious objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
