Mohammadreza Karimi, CEO of Arvand Petrochemical, revealed the
company's readiness for an initial public offering and outlined the
achievements and future plans. "Leveraging Iranian services is a core
strategy at Arvand Petrochemical. We have localized the supply chain from
specialized equipment to key catalysts, and we aim to source more domestic
knowledge and services to enhance downstream unit feedstock and develop new
specialized grades," he said.
Karimi emphasized that the company opposes competition in the PVC
market. "We aim to eliminate competition and ensure that every company can
easily access our products. By executing our development plan, we will double
our PVC output and take over the regional market within three years," he
stated.
Addressing the PVC shortage in West Asia, Karimi noted, "The
Middle East alone faces a deficit of 1.8 million tons of PVC, currently
imported from the U.S., Europe, and China. New projects in the region are
essential. If we can meet this demand, we can dominate the regional
market."
Karimi highlighted the strategic advantages of developing the PVC
value chain in Iran, given the abundant salt resources derived from seawater.
"With extensive coastlines and maritime access, we must harness these
assets and move towards a maritime-based economy, as emphasized by our Supreme
Leader," he remarked.
Discussing future projects, Karimi mentioned the construction of a
health-grade caustic soda unit supported by the Persian Gulf Petrochemical
Industries Company. "We produce 660,000 tons of 100% caustic soda
annually, equivalent to 1.32 million tons of 50% caustic soda. This unique
grade is not produced elsewhere in the country, eliminating concerns for
domestic caustic soda manufacturers," he said.
Karimi also pointed out the company’s role in fostering investment in
downstream industries, aligned with the Supreme Leader's directive for
production growth through public participation. "Wherever downstream
investors step in, we refrain from entering to encourage their participation,"
he explained.
Karimi assured that Arvand Petrochemical has achieved stable
production levels, alleviating supply concerns for dependent companies such as
Bandar Imam, Khuzestan, Karun, Ghadir, Abadan, and Hegmataneh Petrochemicals.
"With stable feedstock supply, our downstream affiliates are witnessing
increased production," he said.
Regarding the company’s plans to enter the capital market, Karimi
stated, "We have prepared the necessary infrastructure and prerequisites
for an IPO. Our financial systems and transparency measures are fully
operational. We are ready to enter the stock market as soon as the major
shareholder deems it appropriate."