Mansour Shekarollahi told NIPNA that developing the petrochemical
industry helps diversify Iran’s economy and lessen its reliance on crude oil
exports. “Converting crude oil and natural gas into petrochemical products
generates higher added value and steers the economy toward exporting processed
goods, which are more stable and resilient to oil price fluctuations,” he said.
He added that petrochemical projects have been implemented across
various regions of the country, especially in less-developed areas, creating
both direct jobs and broader economic activity in supporting industries and
services. “This contributes to balanced economic development nationwide,”
Shekarollahi noted.
Highlighting the sector’s technological complexity, the lawmaker said
petrochemical development fosters growth in engineering and technical expertise
while supplying essential raw materials to downstream industries. “This helps
expand the value chain and drive overall economic growth,” he said.
Shekarollahi also emphasized that petrochemical products remain among
Iran’s most significant non-oil exports. “These exports generate substantial
foreign currency revenues that support infrastructure development and other key
economic sectors,” he added.