Extensive arrangements are being made by Riyadh Exhibition Center to hold the Saudi Plastics and Petrochem 2014 — the 11th international plastics and petrochemicals trade exhibition at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center on Feb. 17.

The Kingdom is expected to become the world’s third largest exporter of petrochemical products with its market share poised to reach 10 percent by 2015. Saudi plastics and petrochemical exports grew from less than $500 million in 1985 to $22 billion in 2011.

The outlook for domestic plastics and petrochemicals is highly favorable as the country shifts its focus beyond increasing oil production capacity toward expanding its natural gas, refining, and petrochemicals industries.

Organized by the Riyadh Exhibitions Company, the forthcoming edition of the largest industrial event in the region will gather local and international industrialists and professionals, in addition to a number of governmental industrial commissions from the Gulf states. On display will be the latest technologies in machinery, equipment and processes, in addition to raw materials, semi-finished products, spare parts and services in the plastics and petrochemical fields.

“Saudi industrial sectors are witnessing unmatched growth, as multi-billion dollar investments are being made in developing the Kingdom’s infrastructure. Saudi Plastics & Petrochem 2014 will reflect the pulse of Saudi Arabia’s plastics and petrochemicals industry, which is witnessing profound growth as well. Designed as an ideal business-to-business networking platform, the event will offer innovative products and technologies that businesses can leverage to stay competitive,” Zeyad Al-Rukban, deputy general manager, Riyadh Exhibitions Company said.

Saudi Plastics & Petrochem 2014 will be held concurrently with Saudi Print & Pack 2014 — the 11th international printing and packaging technologies exhibition.

The upcoming premier event is expected to cover more than 20,000 sqm of exhibition space and host exhibitors from over 26 countries. It will also feature 10 national pavilions to emphasize the potential of the Saudi market. Premier local companies such as the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and the National Industrialization Company (TASNEE) are supporting the event as diamond sponsors, while Saudi Polymers has a tie-up as the official platinum sponsor.