Jan 31 2011
The consumption level of plastics in the GCC has increased dramatically from 19 kg per capita in 2000 to 39 kg per capita in 2010 and should reach the kind of levels seen in developed markets by 2020 according to one of the world's leading petrochemical suppliers in the region.
Packaging has been identified as the fastest growing segment, followed by construction and wire and cable. The Middle Eastern countries, in their need to diversify from dependence on oil revenues, support the growth of the petrochemical industries as a mean to add value to their exports and also to generate employment for local citizens.
Zaheeruddin Ahmed is Director of Manufacturing for Saudi Plastic Factory, the first ever plastic manufacturer in Saudi Arabia. He understands the growth opportunities that exist in the Saudi Arabia market. According to Kamil Al Jawhari at Riyadh Exhibitions Company the Saudi Arabian market accounts for up to 70 % of the total 2 billion USD packaging market in the GCC.
Zaheeruddin will be speaking at the Plastic Packaging Saudi Arabia Summit 2011. He will share his views on how to improve efficiency and profitability in plastic manufacturing along with how to implement lean manufacturing concepts into the plants.
Other expert speakers at the event include senior representatives from Saudi Food and Drug Authority, NAPCO Modern Plastic Products, Manama Packaging, The Savola Group and The National Petrochemical Industrial Co. These keynote speakers will discuss current issues such as the benefits of the Saudi Arabian market as a future plastic converting stronghold and how to drive a qualified and skilled workforce within Saudi Arabia and the rest of the Middle East.
IQPC's Plastic Packaging Saudi Arabia Summit will take place from 20-23 February 2011 at the Riyadh Marriott Hotel, Saudi Arabia. The event will feature converters, petrochemical companies and government who will discuss future trends, supply chain, innovative technology, lean manufacturing and six sigma. It will be four days of top-notch presentations and industry panels, alongside with a dedicated exhibition of international solutions providers.