Saudi Arabia Temporarily Bans Imports of Lebanese Agricultural Products Exploited for Drug Smuggling

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Tae-min] Saudi Arabia has announced a temporary ban on the import of Lebanese agricultural products, which have been exploited for drug smuggling, according to the state-run SPA news agency on the 23rd (local time).

On the same day, the Saudi Ministry of Interior declared that from the 25th, imports of Lebanese fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products will be prohibited. The Ministry explained that cases of drugs being smuggled along with agricultural products produced in Lebanon have surged recently. It added that the import ban will continue until Lebanese authorities eradicate organized and systematic drug smuggling.

The Lebanese government acknowledged Saudi Arabia's measure and claimed that drug smuggling is damaging Lebanese farmers and the economy. According to the AP news agency, agricultural products account for 80% of Lebanon's total exports. The largest importers of Lebanese agricultural products are Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

AP reported that Lebanon's economic crisis is worsening, with the local currency's value dropping 85-90% against the US dollar over the past few months.

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