Lebanese exports resume to Saudi Arabia after five-year ban

Saudi Arabia has lifted a five-year ban on Lebanese exports, allowing the first shipments to depart from Beirut. The suspension, imposed due to large-scale smuggling of illicit goods into the Kingdom, was reversed following positive results from Lebanon's enhanced security measures at its ports and border crossings.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam pledged that Lebanon "will never again allow itself to become a launching point for any harm against our Arab brothers." He emphasized that Lebanon aims to be a partner in their security, stability, and prosperity. Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon Fahd Al Dossari reaffirmed his country's support for Lebanon's stability, sovereignty, and the well-being of its people, stressing the prevention of its use as a platform to harm others.

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will never again allow itself to become a launching point for any harm against our Arab brothers. Rather, it will be a partner in their security, stability, and prosperity.

To prevent future smuggling, Lebanon is preparing a new mechanism for direct cooperation with Saudi authorities. This system will link scanning devices at Lebanese ports, airports, and land crossings with their Saudi counterparts. This allows Saudi authorities to monitor incoming shipments in real time and intervene if suspicious cargo is detected. Lebanese customs officials will also have access to this data, enabling them to monitor shipments bound for Lebanon from other countries in the future.

The decision to resume exports was directed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on June 10, acknowledging the "positive steps" taken by the Lebanese government. This move came in response to requests from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. The departure of the first container to Jeddah Islamic Port was attended by Salam, several ministers, and Ambassador Al Dossari, marking a significant step in restoring bilateral trade relations.

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Based on the positive steps taken by the Leba