Saudi International Petrochemical Company’s R&D Chief Comments on building a sustainable downstream industry in the Middle East

Clarion Events Middle East (The World Refining Association) today announced Dr. Trevor Hutley, General Manager of Product and Technology Development, Saudi International Petrochemical Company (Sipchem), will address the Middle East Chemical Week (MECW) 2011 on the need for innovation in the GCC petrochemical industry. 

Dr. Trevor Hutley is responsible for creating the R&D dimension of Sipchem, with a primary focus on the creation of the new Sipchem Polymer Product and Application Development Centre (PADC) which will open in 2012 at the Dhahran Techno Valley in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He will deliver a presentation at MECW 2011 on Monday, 17 October, on his experiences in developing this new R&D centre. 

Dr. Trevor Hutley, General Manager of Product and Technology Development, Sipchem, commented: “Even a private company can take a bold step and set up their own R&D centre to take control of their future”.  

On building a sustainable downstream industry in the GCC, he said: “My analysis of the situation is that companies like us (petrochemical producers) need to focus more on the downstream industry. Cluster programmes (such as the National Industrial Cluster Development Programme in Saudi Arabia) are starting to contribute to the development of the downstream industry. Development parks (such as the one at Petro-Rabigh and the one in Abu Dhabi) are providing space and attractive infrastructure, as well as proximity to raw material suppliers, in another thrust that will assist the development of the downstream polymer processing sector.” 

The petrochemical downstream sector is responsible for thousands of products including petrol, diesel, jet fuel, heating oil, asphalt, lubricants, synthetic rubber, plastics, fertilizers, anti-freeze, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, natural gas and propane. 

Many top-level industry officials and experts from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman will also be present at MECW 2011, which is regarded as a key platform for petrochemical and downstream players to meet and do business. 

Sipchem, a Saudi company listed on the Saudi stock market, maintains strict adherence to the highest product quality standards without compromising its commitment to the environment and the safety of its employees and the community. 

The MECW will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in the U.A.E from 16-19 October, 2011. The four-day conference and exhibition, dedicated to the petrochemical and fertilizer industry, will bring together leading players in the sector to address how the Middle East region can improve its competitive position in the global market.