TEHRAN – The 12th edition of Iran Petrochemical Forum (IPF) had the distinction of energetic participation of global behemoths in the petrochemical industry, such as the Linde Group, Haldor Topsoe, Polytechs, and Siemens, to name a few.

All the companies are bracing themselves for launching ventures with the post-sanctions Iran in the near future. This is a highlight in the remarks made by the companies’ representatives.

According to Christian Bruch of the German Linde Group, the company will waste no time to participate in Iran’s petrochemical projects as soon as sanctions against the country are unwound.

Brunch further reminded that considering the uniqueness of Iran's petrochemical sector, it can play a major role in the country’s economy.

Vice President of the Danish Haldor Topsoe, Per K. Bakkerud, one of the world's leading companies active in the manufacturing of heterogeneous catalysis, said his company is seeking long-term participation in Iran’s petrochemical projects immediately after the removal of sanctions.

Martin Bloem of the French Polytechs expressed his company’s interest to set up a petrochemical service factory in Iran. Emphasizing Iran’s high capacity to export polymer, he said: “After the removal of sanctions, it will be better for us to have direct contact with Iran’s petrochemical industry.”

Also, Jurgen Brandes of the German Siemens, referred to years of cooperation with Iran in the field of compressor and turbine manufacturing, putting that his company can develop all-out petrochemical cooperation with Iranian companies.

Iran can be at the forefront of petrochemical production in the Middle East given its capacities, Brandes added.

The 12th edition of the high-profile two-day IPF wrapped up yesterday with more than 15,000 representatives from domestic and foreign firms including Australia, Azerbaijan, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Russia, and the U.S taking part in the event.

Iran plans to raise its petrochemical production to around 129 million tons by 2021, which marks the end of the country’s sixth five-year development plan. The country has also set the goal of swelling its petrochemical output to 180 million tons by 2025.

Iran is currently facing no problems for selling its petrochemical and polymer products, but the removal of sanctions will cut export costs and beef up advantages for target markets.

AK/