Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association supports strategic planning talks at the National Center for Privatization & PPP workshop in Riyadh.
The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), which represents the chemical industry across the Arabian Gulf region, played an active role in shaping the strategic direction of the National Committee for Plastic Circularity (NCPC) during a recent workshop held on 29 January at the Federation of Saudi Chambers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
During the session, Eng. Mater Aldhafeeri, Secretary General of GPCA, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of strong industry leadership, innovation, and collaboration across multiple sectors to accelerate progress toward sustainability and circular economy goals. He emphasized that coordinated efforts between government bodies, industry players, and stakeholders across the value chain are essential to create meaningful and lasting impact in plastic circularity.
The workshop convened senior executives, policymakers, and representatives from across the packaging and plastics value chain. Participants worked together to define the NCPC’s long-term strategic priorities, identify key focus areas, and establish priority working streams that align with the Kingdom’s national sustainability agenda and the broader objectives of Vision 2030. Discussions also focused on strengthening cooperation between industry and regulators to ensure practical and scalable implementation of circular economy initiatives.
Khalid Alshiha, Strategy & Investments Senior Specialist at the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, shared insights into Saudi Arabia’s evolving regulatory environment, national waste management frameworks, and policy direction supporting the country’s transition toward a more circular plastics economy. His presentation provided valuable clarity on government priorities and upcoming developments that will influence industry participation and investment.
Providing an additional economic and industry viewpoint, André Sleiman, Director at Roland Berger Middle East, presented a detailed analysis of the practical, financial, and operational enablers required to successfully implement circularity initiatives. His contribution highlighted the importance of investment readiness, technology adoption, and business model innovation to achieve measurable progress.
GPCA’s engagement in the workshop demonstrates its ongoing commitment to advancing circular economy initiatives across the GCC region. By fostering collaboration, supporting policy development, and encouraging innovation, the association continues to play a key role in enabling a more sustainable, competitive, and resilient plastics industry. GPCA also reaffirmed its intention to work closely with the NCPC and relevant stakeholders to translate strategic priorities into actionable outcomes that benefit both the environment and the regional economy.