CEDA Highlights Saudi Economic Resilience in Recent Meeting
A meeting of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs (CEDA) was held virtually on Sunday to review a report submitted by the Strategic Management Office concerning the performance of Saudi Vision 2030 programs and national strategies for the first quarter of 2026. The report emphasized the progress made towards achieving the objectives of Vision 2030 and highlighted the qualitative accomplishments across its three pillars: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. It noted the continued positive performance of the Vision programs and national strategies despite regional shifts, underscoring the resilience of the Saudi economy and its adaptability to regional and international developments.
The CEDA meeting also reviewed the quarterly report from the Ministry of Economy and Planning, which addressed major developments in the national economy and its growth prospects amid a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The report highlighted the strength and resilience of the national economy in the face of regional challenges, noting that the annual inflation rate remained among the lowest globally at 1.8 percent for the third consecutive month in July 2026. Additionally, the Purchasing Managers' Index for the private sector remained in expansion territory for the fourth consecutive month, reaching 53.1 points.
Furthermore, the Council discussed a presentation by the Ministry of Health on its transformation plan, which involved transferring 10 health clusters from the Ministry of Health to the Health Holding Company. This transition aims to enhance prevention, improve healthcare quality and accessibility, and elevate patient experience, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 objectives, including reaching a life expectancy of 80 years.
The council also reviewed developments in the privatization ecosystem, including the performance of supervisory committees and strategic projects, reflecting progress in privatization and public-private partnership initiatives. Other matters discussed included draft regulations for the International Tourism Academy, investment projects in the Eastern Province, and reports on economic forecasts, international partnerships, and social support systems.