Synergy 2025: Evolving from Energy Partners to Strategic Allies
Following Foreign Minister Wang Yi's pivotal visit in December 2025, the economic landscape between Beijing and Riyadh is rapidly transforming. It's no longer just about oil—it's about green hydrogen, digital infrastructure, and manufacturing the future.
Trade Volume (2024)
China remains Saudi Arabia's largest trading partner. Despite the global economic climate, the trade volume has remained robust, exceeding $107 Billion.
Total Trade
$107.5B
Trade Balance
+$7.4B
(Surplus for KSA)
Import vs. Export Flow ($ Billions)
Source: 2024-2025 Economic Report
Beyond Crude Oil
While oil remains the bedrock of imports from Saudi Arabia, Chinese exports have diversified significantly into high-tech sectors, labeled the "New Export Trio" (EVs, Batteries, Solar).
China Exports to KSA
Total: $50.05 Billion
China Imports from KSA
Total: $57.48 Billion
Reciprocal Mega-Projects
Investment is no longer one-way. Saudi Aramco is investing heavily in Chinese refining capacity, while Sinopec and Chinese tech giants are building infrastructure in the Kingdom.
Yanbu Refinery Expansion
>$10 Billion
Sinopec & Saudi Aramco Joint Venture. Aiming for 40% increase in chemical production capacity.
Gulei Refining (Fujian)
~$9.8 Billion
Saudi Aramco investment in China. 16M tons/year oil refining and ethylene production.
Green Hydrogen
Strategic
Sinopec & ACWA Power. FEED contract signed for the world's largest green hydrogen project.
Investment Valuation Comparison ($ Billion)
Strategic Synergy
The relationship is cemented by the deep alignment between China's global infrastructure push and Saudi Arabia's economic diversification plan.
- Energy Security: Reliable flows to China.
- Vision 2030: Localizing manufacturing (EVs).
- Digital Silk Road: 600+ RHQs in Riyadh.
Initiative
2030
Tech, Green Energy,
Infrastructure
The Diplomatic Catalyst
Foreign Minister Wang Yi's tour in Dec 2025 set the stage for a new era of cooperation, focusing on three key pillars: Summit Preparation, Free Trade, and Regional Security.
Wang Yi Visits Riyadh
Held critical talks with Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud regarding the "Board of Peace" for Gaza and bilateral stability.
FTA Push
Renewed momentum to finalize the China-GCC Free Trade Agreement, targeting tariff reductions on petrochemicals and consumer goods.
2nd China-Arab Summit
To be hosted by Beijing. Expected to produce a comprehensive roadmap for the next 5 years of economic and strategic cooperation.