The country’s polymer industry is entering a new phase of growth,
driven by the expansion of petrochemical projects and the utilization of vast
oil and gas resources, the Petroleum Ministry’s news agency Shana
reported. Demand for polymer products has surged globally in recent decades,
making the industry one of the key drivers of the world economy.
Iran currently produces around 9 million tons of polymers annually, a
sharp increase from 840,000 tons in 2002. With 26 new polymer projects under
construction, the National Petrochemical Company (NPC) expects capacity to
reach 16 million tons per year once the ongoing projects come online.
Iran’s polymer sector has expanded from just three complexes in 2002
to 31 operational units in 2024, with major production hubs located in
Assaluyeh, Mahshahr, and other industrial zones. Assaluyeh currently accounts
for 2.85 million tons of capacity, Mahshahr for 3.88 million tons, and other
regions for about 2.64 million tons.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and
polypropylene (PP) remain the leading products, with HDPE alone representing
over 2.4 million tons of capacity. HDPE and LDPE are also Iran’s top polymer
exports, with shipments exceeding 1.48 million tons and 1 million tons,
respectively.
Iran’s strategic advantage in the polymer industry stems from its
access to abundant hydrocarbon feedstock and proximity to regional markets
across the Persian Gulf, Central Asia, and South Asia. Officials say expanding
investment, advancing domestic technology, and completing value chains will be
essential for Iran to boost its regional market share.
The NPC managing director has emphasized shifting focus from basic
petrochemical production, such as methanol, which averages around $300 per ton
in value, toward polymer products valued at approximately $1,000 per ton. The
transition, he said, will enhance job creation, strengthen downstream
industries, reduce import dependence, and increase Iran’s influence in global
trade.