OPEC raises China’s oil demand growth forecast

The oil producers’ alliance, however, left the global total steady citing potential downside risks for growth in other regions. File
Short Url
Updated 11 May 2023
Follow

OPEC raises China’s oil demand growth forecast

  • World oil demand in 2023 will rise by 2.33 million barrels per day, or 2.3 percent, the organization said in its monthly report

RIYADH: The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries on Thursday further raised its forecast for China’s oil demand growth in 2023 following the relaxation of the country’s COVID-19 curbs.

The oil producers’ alliance, however, left the global total steady citing potential downside risks for growth in other regions.

“Minor upward adjustments were made due to the better-than-expected performance in China’s economy, while other regions are expected to see slight declines, due to economic challenges that are likely to weigh on oil demand,” OPEC said in the report.

World oil demand in 2023 will rise by 2.33 million barrels per day, or 2.3 percent, the organization said in its monthly report. This was virtually unchanged from 2.32 million bpd forecast last month.

“As further debt-related challenges may arise, geopolitical uncertainties persist and inflation continues. In addition, the US debt ceiling issue has so far not been resolved, a matter that could have economic consequences,” OPEC said.


SAL agrees $30m Aviapartner Liege acquisition to expand into Europe

Updated 58 min 54 sec ago
Follow

SAL agrees $30m Aviapartner Liege acquisition to expand into Europe

RIYADH: SAL Saudi Logistics Services Co. has agreed to acquire Belgium-based Aviapartner Liege SA for €28 million ($30.3 million), giving the Saudi logistics firm a foothold at one of Europe’s major air cargo hubs. 

Under a sale and purchase agreement signed with Aviapartner Belgium NV and Aviapartner Holding NV, SAL will acquire 100 percent of the company’s share capital on a cash-free, debt-free basis, according to a filing on Saudi Exchange. 

The acquisition gives SAL a full operational presence at Liege Airport in Belgium, a key European cargo hub, and is expected to support the company’s long-term growth strategy. 

SAL, which provides cargo handling and logistics services across Saudi airports, has been expanding its service portfolio as the Kingdom invests heavily in aviation and supply-chain infrastructure under Vision 2030. 

In the Tadawul filing, the company stated: “This acquisition supports SAL’s international expansion strategy by establishing an operational footprint at a key European cargo hub, expanding its cargo ground handling and logistics service offerings at international airports, geographically diversifying its revenue streams, and leveraging operational synergies through access to established infrastructure, airline relationships, and a mature operating environment.” 

The deal is strategically significant because Liege Airport has emerged as one of Europe’s most important air cargo hubs and a rapidly expanding gateway for global freight flows. 

The Belgian airport is the fifth-largest cargo airport in Europe and has recorded strong growth in recent years, handling more than 1.3 million tonnes of cargo in 2025 as volumes rose about 14 percent year on year. 

The transaction will be financed through the company’s available cash resources and remains subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. 

Aviapartner Liege, based in Liege, Belgium, primarily provides ground handling and cargo services. 

Financial disclosures show Aviapartner Liege generated revenues of €24.7 million in 2023, rising to €28.6 million in 2024 before declining to €24.3 million in 2025. 

SAL said it expects the transaction to have a positive long-term impact on its financial performance following completion and consolidation of the acquired company’s financial results.  

The company added that no related parties were involved in the transaction, which was signed on March 4.