The 21 Automotive Companies Facing a Temporary Ban in Saudi Arabia
Official authorities in Saudi Arabia have announced a ban on vehicles from 21 automotive companies entering the local market due to their failure to submit 2025 supply plans within the specified timeframe. This move aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals, as the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO), in collaboration with the General Authority for Ports (Mawani), seeks to regulate the flow of goods and vehicles into the market. The aim is to organize the automotive sector and improve energy efficiency in transportation through the application of energy-saving design and construction standards, while also reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability nationwide.
In an official circular addressed to shipping agents and all port operators, the General Authority for Ports stated that the ban was based on directives from SASO regarding the companies' failure to submit their 2025 supply plans. The decision targets new light vehicles under 3.5 tons. This action will remain temporary until the companies comply by submitting their plans, with a final deadline set for the end of the current year.
SASO noted that the full list of affected companies will be published on the Saudi Energy Efficiency Program (SEEP) portal and updated regularly based on company responses. This regulation aims to enhance energy efficiency in the transport sector—especially for small cars and light trucks—under the Saudi Corporate Average Fuel Economy (Saudi CAFE) standard.
This standard forms part of a broader national energy strategy. It is based on a technology-neutral approach to ensure fair, sustainable competition while accommodating consumer preferences and market diversity. It calculates target fuel consumption averages at the company level, based on vehicle usage and type, which helps preserve variety without compromising performance or market sustainability.
While the list includes several well-known global brands, others may be less familiar to the general public. Below is a brief introduction to the 21 companies affected by the temporary ban:
List of the 21 Banned Automotive Companies
Luxgen Motor Co., Ltd.
A Taiwanese automaker founded in 2008 and owned by the Yulon Group. Known for integrating smart tech into its vehicles, Luxgen markets itself under the slogan 'Think Ahead,' targeting the mid-range luxury segment. Hawtai Motor Group
A Chinese company established in 2000, known for producing SUVs and passenger cars. It formerly partnered with Hyundai (2002–2010), gaining technical expertise still used in its current lineup. Greenkar Auto Tech Co., Ltd.
A technical services provider specializing in vehicle testing and certification. Focuses on commercial and modified vehicles, operating under both European and Chinese quality standards. Zotye International Automobile Trading Co., Ltd.
The international trading arm of Zotye Auto, focused on exporting vehicles and parts, especially to the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, offering affordable automotive solutions. Higer Bus Company Limited
Founded in 1998 in Suzhou, China, Higer is a leading bus manufacturer exporting to over 100 countries. Known for advanced safety and comfort features across various bus types. Beijing Borgward Automotive Co., Ltd.
Reviving the historic German brand Borgward, this Chinese-owned company blends European design with modern Chinese technology to produce stylish SUVs. Qoros Automotive Co., Ltd.
A joint venture founded in 2007 between Chery and international partners, Qoros produces Euro-standard cars designed with European engineering input. Koenigsegg Automotive AB
A Swedish hypercar manufacturer founded in 1994 by Christian von Koenigsegg. Famous for record-breaking, ultra-high-performance cars built with proprietary technologies. Lifan Industry (Group) Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1992, initially as a motorcycle manufacturer, Lifan now produces budget-friendly cars and light commercial vehicles, mainly targeting emerging markets. Xiamen Golden Dragon Bus Co., Ltd.
Established in 1992, the company builds luxury buses and light commercial vehicles, widely used in public transportation, education, and tourism sectors. Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Co., Ltd.
One of China's oldest and largest bus manufacturers, founded in 1988. Operates in over 120 countries and provides comprehensive public and private transport solutions. Brilliance Auto International Trade Corporation
The export arm of Brilliance Auto, known for a past joint venture with BMW. Its vehicles are recognized for modern design and competitive pricing. South East (Fujian) Motor Corp., Ltd.
A joint venture established in 1995 between China Motor and Fujian Motors. It assembles Mitsubishi models and is known for reliable and affordable vehicles. McLaren Automotive
A British maker of high-performance sports cars based in Woking, UK. McLaren transitioned from Formula 1 to road cars, known for cutting-edge technology and distinctive design. Tata Motors Ltd.
India's largest automaker, founded in 1945. Produces a wide range of vehicles and owns Jaguar and Land Rover. Recently expanding into the EV sector. CHTC Motor Co., Ltd.
Part of the China Hi-Tech Group, it manufactures heavy-duty trucks and construction vehicles, with a focus on Belt and Road infrastructure markets. Jiangxi Dorcen Automobile Co., Ltd.
A newer Chinese automaker founded in 2018, offering SUVs and pickup trucks with strong value propositions and growing international ambitions. BAIC Yinxiang Automobile Co., Ltd.
A joint venture between BAIC Group and Yinxiang, founded in 2010, producing budget SUVs aimed at young drivers and small families. Baoding Changan Bus Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
A subsidiary of Changan, specializing in bus production for public and private transport, widely used in Chinese cities and government projects. SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile Co., Ltd.
A joint venture between SAIC, GM, and Wuling. One of China's top automakers, best known for the highly popular Wuling Mini EV. DFSK Motor Co., Ltd.
A joint venture between Dongfeng and Sokon, producing compact commercial vehicles and modern SUVs under the Fengon brand, with broad international presence.
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