In 1979, Iran could supply only 3 million tons of petrochemicals
annually while production capacity stands at 64 mt/y currently.
The industry has made such great progress under hard times and
sanctions imposed by the revolution's enemies over the years since 1979.
Despite the various challenges in its development, Iran's
petrochemical industry continues to accelerate its development, and given the
fact that Iran enjoys the right infrastructure, this industry can become one of
the most promising industries in the country.
The production capacity of various petrochemical products in the year 1979
was about 3 million tons, while it reached 64 million tons in the current
Iranian calendar year which began on March 21.
The number of active petrochemical plants has reached 57 from only 3
in 1979 with a number of new ones bracing for inauguration in the remaining months
of 2018.
In the revolution year, Iranian petrochemical plants could supply only
17 types of petrochemicals while the number has exceeded 114 types of
petrochemical products.
Besides the current installed capacity of petrochemical complexes,
i.e. 64 million tons per year, the country has devised 58 projects which will
add over 58 mt/y to its annual production capacity.
Obviously, given the circumstances that have arisen after the launch
and opening of new windows to this industry, there is a likelihood of a change
in the number and type of plans based on international interactions and negotiations.
In the meantime, the petrochemical industry approaches to the development of
the value chain by utilizing the technical knowledge and investment of
international companies and relying on the capabilities of domestic companies
with regard to available feedstock (natural gas).