Officials from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) stated that Saudi Arabia is among the first countries in the world to develop a scientific and reliable methodology to measure the size and value of e-commerce.
This assessment was shared during a workshop highlighting the Kingdom’s efforts to align digital trade measurement with international standards. The meeting was held as part of the 68th regular session of the E-Commerce Council and brought together representatives from 25 public institutions. The session was chaired by Minister of Commerce Majed Al-Qasabi, with council members also in attendance. The discussions addressed both strategic policy initiatives and operational measures aimed at supporting the rapidly growing e-commerce sector in Saudi Arabia.
UNCTAD: A Measurement Framework Aligned With International Standards
UNCTAD officials stated that Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in developing a comprehensive framework to assess the scale, value, and structure of e-commerce and digital trade. It was noted that the methodology was designed to be aligned with globally accepted definitions and best practices and enables accurate measurement across different classifications of e-commerce activities.
UNCTAD experts reported that close cooperation is being carried out with Saudi authorities to develop the framework. It was noted that the initiative aims to assess the level of digital trade adoption in the Kingdom, measure transaction volumes and sectoral growth, and enhance the competitiveness of the e-commerce ecosystem. In addition, strengthening digital economy policies and improving the efficiency of public services provided to the business sector were also listed among the objectives.
To oversee the implementation of the project, a working group was established within the E-Commerce Council under the chairmanship of its secretariat and with the participation of 11 public institutions. It was stated that this group is responsible for implementing the framework in coordination with UNCTAD.
Seasonal Demand and Service Performance
During the meeting, information was also provided on preparations by the Transport General Authority to manage increased seasonal demand, particularly during the Ramadan period. Officials stated that online orders rise sharply during religious holidays and national occasions, creating additional pressure on postal and delivery services.
According to official data shared, e-commerce shipments during Ramadan increased by 18 percent last year, reaching 26 million shipments. During the same period, the number of registered complaints declined significantly, falling from 4,330 to 1,700. Officials attributed this improvement to more effective coordination, service planning, and oversight mechanisms.
The Transport General Authority emphasized that the seasonal plan aims to increase service efficiency during peak periods, improve the quality of postal services, raise customer satisfaction, and strengthen governance through coordination with all relevant stakeholders.
The Role of the E-Commerce Council
Established in 2018, the E-Commerce Council plays a central role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s digital trade ecosystem. The council’s responsibilities include developing policy and legislative proposals, overseeing the E-Commerce Stimulation Program, ensuring coordination among public institutions, and addressing obstacles faced by the sector.
The meeting also reviewed cooperation with international organizations and relevant public institutions to facilitate e-commerce, as well as the necessary regulatory and procedural reforms. UNCTAD officials stated that the e-commerce measurement initiative could position Saudi Arabia as a global reference point in data and analysis and contribute to evidence-based policymaking and the sector’s long-term growth.
UNCTAD, Launched the First Global Database To Track E-Commerce Value
