NPC’s Downstream Industries Development Department reported that out
of a total 776,470 tonnes of petrochemicals offered on commodity exchanges in
July, 207,447 tonnes – about 27% – were available on credit terms. Of these,
68,631 tonnes were actually sold on credit.
The company said expanding credit-based sales aims to address a key
challenge for downstream manufacturers – securing working capital to purchase
feedstock – identified during a sector-wide review of production barriers. NPC
has urged producers to make full use of credit facilities in commodity and
energy exchanges to stimulate domestic manufacturing, ensure feedstock supply
and complete the petrochemical value chain.
Strengthening downstream industries in line with upstream expansion,
the NPC said, will help meet domestic demand, curb raw material exports, reduce
imports and boost foreign currency earnings, employment and Iran’s regional
standing.