Abbas Karimi, CEO of Shazand Petrochemical, told local media the
overhaul, which will span approximately one month, involves extensive repairs
across all 23 production and utility units. “The last overhaul of this scope
was carried out in 2014. This year’s program includes overhauling various
compressors and replacing catalysts in the EO/EG unit,” he said.
Some units have already begun gradual shutdowns in preparation for the
main maintenance phase.
Shift in Product Strategy Amid Afghan Export Ban
Karimi also revealed that Shazand is shifting its product mix in
response to changes in regional trade conditions. Approximately 25% of the
company’s sales previously came from A80 hydrocarbon exports to Afghanistan.
However, recent regulatory changes by the Afghan government have halted these
exports as of May 6.
“Our teams are actively working to introduce new hydrocarbon grades
with updated formulations, such as A92, to replace A80 and regain export
momentum,” he added.
Feedstock Pricing Reform Offers Financial Upside
Commenting on the company’s feedstock pricing challenges, Karimi
criticized the pricing mechanism employed over the past two years, which he
said was managed unlawfully by a refinery industry trade association. “We sent
more than 35 official letters over the past four months to the relevant
authorities,” he said.
Karimi welcomed a recent decision to restore feedstock pricing
authority to the National Iranian Oil Products Distribution Company starting in
July. “This shift, supported by the Ministry of Petroleum and Parliament, will
undoubtedly enhance Shazand’s financial performance and deliver greater value
to our shareholders,” he noted.
Shazand Petrochemical, located in Iran’s Markazi province, is one of
the country’s major petrochemical producers, supplying domestic and
international markets with a range of chemical and fuel products.