A new step towards enhancing transparency and competitiveness of the Saudi economy
As part of its ongoing efforts to develop the legislative and regulatory environment, the unified electronic platform “Istilaa,” affiliated with the National Competitiveness Center, has launched 33 new projects related to economic and developmental matters. This initiative, undertaken in cooperation with 18 government entities, aims to engage the public, the private sector, and other government bodies in the decision-making process, enabling them to express their opinions and suggestions on proposed regulations and bylaws before their final approval.
General context: The “Survey” platform and Saudi Vision 2030
The “Survey” platform is one of the key tools adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, which focuses on building a prosperous economy and a vibrant society. The platform was launched to promote transparency and community participation in legislation development, ensuring that regulations and bylaws align with market needs and the aspirations of both investors and consumers. Through this platform, the National Competitiveness Center (Tayseer) objectively studies and analyzes all feedback and proposals, submitting them to relevant authorities for review before finalizing projects. This contributes to improving the Kingdom's ranking in global competitiveness indices.
Key projects proposed and their expected impact
The 33 projects cover multiple vital sectors, reflecting the comprehensive approach of the government to organizational development. Among the most prominent of these projects are:
- Organizing sales aisles in grocery stores and supermarkets: The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing is leading this project, which aims to establish a clear policy and implementation plan for organizing sales aisles in retail stores and supermarkets. This organization is expected to improve the shopper experience, enhance product display efficiency, ensure easy access to products, and promote safety and hygiene standards.
- Developing the transport and logistics sector: The Public Transport Authority has launched several important projects, including an executive regulation to govern the transport of goods using motorcycles, and a schedule of violations and penalties for mass transit activities via electronic applications. These projects aim to keep pace with the rapid growth in the delivery and logistics sector, ensure the provision of safe and reliable services, and encourage investment in this vital field.
- Livestock safety: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture presented the “Livestock and Livestock Products Transport Guide” project, which aims to complete the regulatory requirements to ensure the safe transport of animals and their products, thereby enhancing biosecurity, maintaining public health and supporting the sustainability of this sector.
- Enhancing Building Safety Standards: The Saudi Building Code Center has launched the “Technical Guide for Implementing Liquefied Petroleum Gas Systems in Buildings.” This guide aims to support the application of safety requirements related to the storage, distribution, and use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and to reduce risks resulting from leaks or fires, thus ensuring the protection of lives and property.
Strategic importance and future impact
Introducing these projects through the “Survey” platform is not merely a routine legislative process, but rather a confirmation of a strategic approach aimed at building a modern economy based on transparency and efficiency. Domestically, these regulations will improve the quality of services provided to citizens and residents. Economically, they create a more attractive business environment for local and international investors by removing regulatory obstacles and providing a stable and transparent legal framework, thus enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a leading investment destination regionally and globally.
