14ᵗʰ GPCA Plastics Conference to Explore the Role of Innovation in Value Creation and Growth This Month

The conference will take place on 20-21 April 2025 at JW Marriott Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 13 April 2025 – The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the voice of the chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf, will explore the role of innovation in driving value creation and growth at the 14th GPCA Plastics Conference taking place on 20-21 April 2025 at JW Marriott Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

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

Innovation is a driving force behind value creation in the GCC plastic industry, contributing to sustainability, economic growth, and technological advancements. Accelerating innovation plays a crucial role across product design, business models, and resource management, and can support efforts to achieving circular economy in the GCC. Continuous innovation in polymer production and conversion technologies has enabled the GCC region to maintain a competitive edge in the global market. This includes advancements in recycling technologies and the development of new, sustainable materials.

Opportunities exist to leverage innovation for more sustainable production and economic growth. Research estimates say that every 1 million tons of recycled plastic produced in the GCC region can generate approximately 1,500 jobs and USD 650 million in direct GDP impact. According to another study, advancements in chemical recycling technologies can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional plastic production methods. The 14th GPCA Plastics Conference will provide an ideal platform to spotlight innovations in plastics recycling and discuss the role of regulations in creating an enabling environment for growth.

Held under the theme: “The Next Growth Paradigm: Value Creation through Innovation”, the conference will bring together senior executives and policymakers from the Arabian Gulf region, Europe, and the United States, representing leading companies in the plastic industry and waste management sector.

The conference will spotlight the industry’s top strategic priorities, including balancing sustainability with economic prosperity, value chain innovation, managing low-value plastic waste, and accelerating the transition to a circular economy.

It will also address key regulatory policies, the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and the role of innovation and technology in driving sustainable profitability. Tailored to provide insights on a wide variety of topics, the program will feature keynote speeches, multi-stakeholder panel discussions, and case studies from leading organizations, which will highlight innovative solutions that enhance the value of sustainable plastics and contribute to achieving national and regional sustainability goals.

Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General of GPCA, commented: “In the pursuit of the next paradigm of plastics growth, fostering innovation and collaboration will be essential to address the sustainability challenges of our time, while meeting the demand for sustainable plastics and ensuring socio-economic growth. By fostering cutting-edge advancements and sustainable practices, we can enhance the plastics industry’s position as a dynamic driver of economic growth and environmental stewardship. The 14th GPCA Plastics Conference will serve as a beacon for visionary leaders and innovators from across the region and the world to collaborate and redefine the future of plastics for generations to come.”

To secure your place, visit: www.gpca.org.ae/conferences/plastics.

About the Gulf Petrochemicals & Chemicals Association

The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) was established in 2006 to represent the downstream hydrocarbon industry in the Arabian Gulf. Today, the association voices the common interests of more than 250 member companies from the chemical and allied industries, accounting for over 95 percent of chemical output in the GCC. The industry makes up the second largest manufacturing sector in the region, producing over USD 108 billion worth of products every year.

GPCA supports the petrochemical and chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf through advocacy, networking and thought leadership initiatives aimed at helping member companies to connect, share and advance knowledge, contribute to international dialogue, and become prime influencers in shaping the future of the global petrochemicals industry.

Committed to providing a regional platform for stakeholders from around the world, GPCA manages six working committees – Plastics, Supply Chain, Fertilizers, International Trade, Research and Innovation, and Responsible Care – and organizes six world-class events each year. The association also publishes an annual report, regular newsletters and various other industry reports.

For more information, visit www.gpca.org.ae.