Economic concentration approvals are mandated for M&A activities to ensure transactions do not create monopolistic practices or disrupt market competition. The surge aligns with GAC’s broader objectives of implementing competition-driven policies, curbing illegal monopolies, and enhancing market efficiency to boost consumer confidence, attract investment, and support sustainable development.

In Saudi Arabia, acquisition deals dominated approvals at 81%, followed by joint ventures at 15% and mergers at 2%. The manufacturing sector led the charge, accounting for 67 approvals, followed by the information and communications sector with 39 and wholesale and retail trade—including motor vehicle and motorcycle repairs—with 22.

Foreign firms showed robust interest in the manufacturing sector, which accounted for 28% of their concentration requests. Information and communications followed at 17%, with wholesale and retail trade at 15%. The GAC also reported a diversification in market activity, noting emerging sectors such as off-road tire production, nicotine replacement therapy manufacturing, and industrial protective coatings.