Saudi Arabia has for the first time allowed a privately owned chemicals plant to manufacture military explosives in the kingdom, the Saudi Chemical Co. said in a statement.
The statement, cited by Reuters, said the firm aimed to sell the explosives in the Gulf, and was currently conducting market surveys throughout the region.
"We have the first and only permit from the Saudi government to manufacture and sell explosives, as well as buy the chemicals needed to make them," the statement said.
"It is our aim that our products replace all imported explosives."
Saudi Chemical Co. calls itself the first and only explosives company to be established in Saudi Arabia.
The company was founded in 1972.
In 1974, the company started to manufacture the explosive Prillit, and by the end of 1975, the company was supplying nearly 75 percent of the domestic demand for explosives.
The company says it currently supplies the entire domestic market with its requirement of commercial explosive and accessories products, and also has a considerable and increasing export business with surrounding countries – Albawaba.com
