14ᵗʰ GPCA Plastics Conference to Spotlight Innovation as a Catalyst for Growth and Sustainability

The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) is set to convene the 14ᵗʰ edition of its flagship Plastics Conference on 20–21 April 2025 at the JW Marriott Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This year’s event will be held under the theme “The Next Growth Paradigm: Value Creation through Innovation.”

As the leading platform for the plastics and petrochemicals sector in the region, the conference will bring together senior executives, policymakers, and industry leaders from the Arabian Gulf, Europe, and the United States. Attendees will represent major players in the plastics manufacturing and waste management sectors, uniting to explore how innovation can drive value creation, economic growth, and environmental sustainability in the GCC region.

Innovation has become a cornerstone of the GCC plastics industry’s strategy to remain globally competitive while addressing pressing environmental concerns. Advancements in polymer production, recycling technologies, and the development of sustainable materials have played a pivotal role in fostering a circular economy. The conference will provide a key platform for stakeholders to highlight successful case studies, share insights, and discuss new approaches in product design, resource efficiency, and innovative business models.

Research indicates that producing one million tons of recycled plastic in the GCC can generate around 1,500 jobs and contribute USD 650 million to the region’s GDP. Furthermore, chemical recycling technologies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% compared to conventional methods. These figures underscore the transformative impact of innovation on sustainability and economic development.

Key topics on the agenda include:

• Balancing sustainability with economic prosperity

• Value chain innovation and circularity

• Managing low-value plastic waste

• Implementing regulatory frameworks such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

• Leveraging innovation and technology for sustainable profitability

The conference program will feature keynote speeches, expert-led panel discussions, and real-world case studies from leading organizations. These sessions aim to showcase how cutting-edge technologies and collaborative strategies can unlock new opportunities for the industry and contribute to national and regional sustainability targets.

Commenting on the upcoming event, Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General of GPCA, said:
“In pursuing the next paradigm of plastics growth, fostering innovation and collaboration will be essential to address the sustainability challenges of our time. By encouraging advancements and sustainable practices, we can strengthen the industry’s role as a driver of economic growth and environmental responsibility. The 14ᵗʰ GPCA Plastics Conference will unite visionary leaders and innovators to redefine the future of plastics for generations to come.”