BEIRUT — Saudi Arabia has lifted a five-year ban on Lebanese imports, Saudi and Lebanese officials announced on Wednesday, in a move aimed at restoring economic and diplomatic ties between Lebanon and Gulf states.
Saudi Arabia imposed a ban on Lebanese fruits and vegetables in 2021 after authorities said smugglers used shipments to transport illegal drugs into the kingdom. The ban later expanded to cover all Lebanese imports following remarks by former Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi criticizing the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen.
The import restrictions came amid strained relations between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon, fueled by Saudi concerns over the influence of Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.
In a statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the decision to lift the ban was made on the orders of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and followed what it described as positive measures taken by the Lebanese government.
The ministry did not specify those measures. However, Lebanese authorities have recently announced plans to disarm non-state armed groups, including Hezbollah, as part of broader state reform efforts.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the decision and thanked the Saudi crown prince. In a statement, Aoun said the move would support Lebanon’s economy and benefit local producers and exporters.
The ban had compounded the effects of Lebanon’s prolonged financial crisis, which has severely affected trade, investment, and the value of the national currency.
Since taking office last year, Lebanon’s government has sought to strengthen relations with Gulf countries and attract investment and tourism from the region as part of efforts to support economic recovery. Some Gulf states have already eased travel restrictions on visits to Lebanon.
