Riyadh, December 6, 2024 – In a powerful address at the opening ceremony of the 18th annual Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Forum, SABIC Chief Executive and GPCA Chairman Eng. Abdulrahman bin Saleh Al-Fageeh highlighted the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to tackle the growing environmental challenges facing the globe. The forum, held for the first time in Muscat, Oman, from December 2 to 5, 2024, brought together leaders from across the chemical and petrochemical industries to discuss the future of sustainability and innovation within the sector.
Speaking at the event, Al-Fageeh emphasized the significant role sustainability will play in shaping the future of the chemical industry. "There are many factors that point to a bright future for the chemical industry, which motivates everyone in our industry to prepare for the future and for the long term now," he said. "We must take the initiative to embrace the concept of sustainability. Doing so requires designing, building, and operating facilities according to the latest technologies, and facilitating access to low-cost capital, innovative technologies, and specialized skills. Achieving this is only possible through stronger international cooperation, which is precisely why we established the annual GPCA Forum."
Al-Fageeh’s comments came as part of a broader discussion on the industry's role in addressing global environmental concerns, including the transition to clean energy, the empowerment of future leaders, and enhancing sustainability efforts across multiple sectors. The forum also explored the broader geopolitical impacts on the chemical industry, global food security, and the technological advancements that are essential for future growth. Throughout the event, attendees engaged in high-level discussions and collaboration aimed at tackling these critical global issues.
A significant highlight of the forum’s opening day was the presentation of the prestigious 6th GPCA Legacy Award “Al-Rowad,” which was awarded to Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Rumhy, Oman’s former Minister of Oil, Gas, Energy, and Minerals. Dr. Al Rumhy was recognized for his pivotal role in advancing the Gulf chemical industry and contributing to the region's overall economic and industrial development.
The event also featured the launch of the second edition of the “Solutions Exchange” platform, which is designed to foster collaboration and innovation within the industry. Over the course of two days, this platform allowed companies and stakeholders to engage in discussions and explore new solutions for the industry's most pressing challenges. In addition, the third edition of the “GPCA Youth Forum” introduced the innovative “GPCA Startup Nexus” initiative, aimed at linking startups with the regional chemical and petrochemical ecosystem. This initiative seeks to promote innovation, cooperation, and the development of new solutions that address the sector’s evolving needs.
The “GPCA Sustainability Pavilion” was another key feature of the forum, showcasing the latest advancements in sustainable technologies. The pavilion provided an interactive space for attendees to explore cutting-edge innovations in carbon capture, circular economy initiatives, hydrogen technologies, and sustainable energy solutions. These technologies are vital for the industry’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and transition towards more sustainable practices.
With more than 95% of the total chemical sector production in Gulf countries accounted for by GPCA member companies, the organization remains the region's second-largest industrial domain. Founded in 2006, the GPCA represents the shared interests of Gulf-based chemical and petrochemical companies, working to shape global industrial policies and promote the growth of the chemical industry on an international scale. The association’s ongoing initiatives, including its emphasis on sustainability and innovation, have significantly advanced the petrochemical industry, positioning the Gulf region as a critical player in the global market.
As the forum concluded, it became clear that the chemical industry in the Gulf is committed to leveraging innovation and sustainability as key drivers for the future. With a renewed focus on collaboration, technology, and international partnerships, the GPCA Forum continues to be an important platform for shaping the future of the chemical and petrochemical sectors, addressing global challenges, and paving the way for a more sustainable industrial landscape.