Speaking at the "Technology Transfer and Localization of
Refining, Petrochemical, and Gas Industry Catalysts" conference today,
Shahmirzaei highlighted significant diplomatic efforts and collaborations over
the past two years aimed at technology transfer, localization, and investment
in catalyst production.
Shahmirzaei emphasized that the Iranian government’s strategy,
particularly under the current administration, has focused on avoiding raw
material sales and maximizing the utilization of national resources. “In the
oil and gas industries, catalysts are considered the driving force behind
operational units, and all petrochemical units require various types of
catalysts,” he stated.
Shahmirzaei reported successful technology transfer and localization
partnerships, particularly with Russian companies.
"Since March 2022, our negotiations with Russia have yielded
results, and over the past year, we exported more than 1,500 tons of catalysts
to Russia. Our collaborations with strategic partners and aligned countries are
expanding," he said.
Shahmirzaei noted that approximately 9 percent of global catalyst
production is attributed to Middle Eastern countries. He asserted that this
share should increase through the efforts of capable Iranian companies to
enhance Iran’s presence in these markets.
He further emphasized the significant progress of Iran’s petrochemical
industry despite sanctions, stating, "Before the revolution, the
petrochemical industry had slow growth. However, as a hydrocarbon-rich nation,
we should have maximized the use of these resources. Today, despite all
sanctions, our production capacity for petrochemical products will exceed 100
million tons by the end of this year with 80 active complexes."
Shahmirzaei concluded by reiterating the critical role of catalysts in
advancing the petrochemical sector and the ongoing commitment to enhancing
domestic production capabilities.