The recent government decision to substitute foreign manufactures with home brands at government institutions has saved the country SR16 billion in annual imports from abroad, said Abdul Rahman Al-Zamil, president of the Council of Saudi Chambers (CSC).

The statement comes in the wake of a decision made by Finance Minister Ibrahim Al-Assaf to purchase locally produced material and equipment for use in various government departments.

“The implementation of such a decision not only saves the government SR16 billion, but also boosts productivity among local manufacturers, which will eventually enhance the national economy,” Al-Zamil said.