GCC petchem firms face ‘illogical’ protectionist measures in many markets: GPCA’s Al-Sadoun

Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary-General, GPCA

Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary-General, Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), said that GCC petrochemical producers faced protectionist measures in many key exports markets during the pandemic, but these measures had no logical basis.

The investments undertaken by GCC petrochemical companies in digital infrastructure played a significant role in sustaining the performance of companies during the pandemic, Al-Sadoun told Argaam on the sidelines of the 15th annual GPCA Forum.

The operating rate of GCC petrochemical firms reached nearly 93% in 2020, compared to 78% for global peers in the same period.

Moreover, supply chains are among the major challenges facing the sector, as 84% of GCC firms’ production is exported. Possible solutions include the development of shipping vessels that are owned or co-owned by those companies, or the formation of alliances with shipping companies to ensure uninterrupted exports, Al-Sadoun added, noting that work is ongoing towards achieving this target.

“Demand is on the rise. All indicators and positive and the global economy is seeing robust growth,” the top official affirmed, adding “the future investment in Saudi Arabia and the GCC states are deemed good. The sector’s tendency for integration with the refining industry in huge complexes requires big investments.”

On the other hand, Al-Sadoun explained that the performance of GCC petrochemical producers in terms of water, energy consumption, as well as carbon emissions, etc. is among the best worldwide.

Commenting on holding the next GPCA Forum in Riyadh, Al-Sadoun said the rotation of the annual event was earlier on the table. “We seek to develop the forum,” he concluded.