Local Content Authority signs deals with Ceer to localize EV manufacturing

The Local Content and Government Procurement Authority announced on Thursday in Riyadh the signing of two agreements with Ceer National Automotive Company to localize electric vehicle manufacturing and transfer knowledge to the Kingdom, in exchange for including Ceer's products on the mandatory list of national products.

The agreements aim to localize the full manufacturing of electric sedans and SUVs in Saudi Arabia, supporting Ceer's efforts to launch the first Saudi-designed, engineered, and manufactured electric car.

Abdulrahman bin Abdullah Al-Semari, CEO of the Authority, stated that this step will strengthen local supply chains, develop strategic industries, create new jobs, encourage the purchase of local raw materials, and boost the competitiveness of the national industrial sector.

Economic impact and job creation

Al-Semari noted that the agreements are expected to contribute approximately SAR 9.213 billion to the gross domestic product over ten years and create more than 2,600 new jobs.

James DeLuca, CEO of Ceer National Automotive Company, said the agreements mark a significant milestone in developing the Kingdom's mobility sector by localizing engineering and manufacturing, transferring knowledge, and building an industrial ecosystem to global standards.

DeLuca added that by 2034, the company aims to create around 30,000 jobs (6,500 direct and 23,500 indirect), with Saudis filling 80% of direct positions, achieving an economic impact estimated at SAR 30 billion, and raising local content in Ceer products to 45%.

Supporting Saudi Vision 2030

The Authority emphasized that these agreements are part of its efforts to promote industrial localization, transfer knowledge, and attract investors to bring leading industries to the Kingdom, thereby enhancing local content and supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.