RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s rise as a global leader in the petrochemicals industry is a product of strategic foresight, substantial investments, and a commitment to economic diversification, experts have told Arab News. 

As the Kingdom seeks to reduce its dependence on oil revenue, its petrochemicals sector has emerged as a cornerstone of its industrial strategy, playing a pivotal role in Vision 2030.

Strategic investments, advanced infrastructure, and cost advantages have rapidly positioned the nation as a global leader in chemicals and plastics production, significantly boosting the sector in just a few years.

Hector Casas, principal at Arthur D. Little Middle East, highlighted in an interview with Arab News that Saudi Arabia’s petrochemical capacity is expected to “double in the next five years, from approximately 75 million tonnes per year to more than 140 million tonnes per year.”

The Kingdom’s access to competitive energy prices will drive this expansion and strengthen its position as a major player in the global petrochemical industry, making it exceptionally competitive in the sector.

“This growth encompasses projects in both basic petrochemical products and high-specialty products that add more value to the oil molecule,” he said.

Nadim Haddad, partner in the Energy Practice IMEA and global head of Oil and Gas at Oliver Wyman, added: “Saudi Arabia is acquiring assets globally in the petrochemical industry that will further cement its role as a pioneer and leader of the industry.”

The global petrochemical market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by rising demand for plastics, chemicals, and advanced materials in emerging markets. 

“Saudi Arabia is strategically positioned to capitalize on these opportunities, reinforcing its status as a global petrochemical powerhouse,” added Casas.

As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy, with the petrochemicals industry playing a key role in reducing reliance on oil and driving industrial growth through technological advancement and strategic partnerships.

Foundations of the petrochemical industry

The foundations of Saudi Arabia’s petrochemical industry are deeply intertwined with the history of its oil and gas sector. Following the discovery of vast oil reserves in the 1930s, the Kingdom quickly recognized the potential of petrochemicals as a means to add value to its hydrocarbon resources.

The establishment of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation – also known as SABIC – in 1976 marked a turning point, as the Kingdom began to channel its abundant natural gas resources into the production of chemicals and plastics.

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