In this special episode of the GPCA Podcast held on the sidelines of the 19th Annual GPCA Forum in Bahrain, Dima Al Horani, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, GPCA, sat down with Christian Peters, Vice President, Chemical Market Catalysts, BASF, to discuss how the company is navigating a rapidly changing global landscape.

Against the backdrop of BASF’s “Winning Ways” strategy, launched in September 2024, the conversation explores how the organization is sharpening its global catalyst offering to better support customers amid market volatility, economic headwinds, and shifting trade dynamics. Christian also reflects on his experience at the forum and what inspires optimism for the road ahead despite ongoing uncertainties.

In this episode, we cover:

- How BASF Catalysts is supporting producers during market uncertainty
- Latest innovations in chemical catalyst technology
- The growing role of catalysts in sustainability and circularity

In this special episode of the GPCA Podcast held on the sidelines of the 19th Annual GPCA Forum in Bahrain, Dima Al Horani, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, GPCA, sat down with Ignacio ‘Nacho’ Torras, President and CEO, Tricon Energy, to discuss the realities of navigating an increasingly multipolar global economy, defined by shifting alliances, geopolitical tensions, and rapidly evolving trade patterns. 

In this conversation, Nacho shares how chemical companies can stay resilient amid volatility, from rethinking investment strategies to diversifying supply chains and exploring new trade corridors. We also dive into the role of digitalization in building agile, transparent, and responsive global networks, and what leadership qualities will be essential to steer the chemical trade sector over the next decade. 

In this episode, we cover:

- The realities of adapting to a multipolar global economy
- Strategic responses to geopolitical and economic volatility
- Supply‑chain diversification and emerging trade routes
- The role of digitalization in global chemical trade

In this special episode of the GPCA Podcast held on the sidelines of the 19th Annual GPCA Forum in Bahrain, Dima Al Horani, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, GPCA, sat down with Dr. Steffen Richter, President – Eastern Europe, Middle East and Central Asia, Linde, to dive into the technologies, partnerships, and large‑scale projects shaping the GCC’s transition toward a low‑carbon industrial future. Dr. Steffen explores the breakthroughs in carbon capture and CO₂ management that could redefine the region’s decarbonization pathway. 

We also discuss one of the world’s first demonstration plants for large‑scale electrically heated steam cracker furnaces, which began operations in 2024 and offers a glimpse into the future of electrified, low‑emission production. Innovation, collaboration, and supportive policy frameworks emerge as essential enablers as the GCC positions itself as a global hub for low‑carbon solutions. The conversation also touches on this year’s event and its role in driving momentum for the region’s climate ambitions.

In this episode, we cover:

- Transformative carbon‑capture technologies for the GCC 
- Progress and impact of the Linde-BASF–SABIC electrified furnace project
- How policy, collaboration, and innovation unlock new value chains
- The GCC’s long‑term vision as a low‑carbon industrial hub

In this special episode of the GPCA Podcast held on the sidelines of the 19th Annual GPCA Forum in Bahrain, Dima Al Horani, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, GPCA, sat down with Deena Al-Khayyal, Managing Director, LyondellBasell Arabian, to explore LyondellBasell’s investment journey in Saudi Arabia and how the company is helping shape the Kingdom’s evolving industrial landscape. 

As Saudi Vision 2030 accelerates diversification and innovation, LYB is aligning global expertise with national priorities to support new collaborative solutions with meaningful local impact. Deena shares insights into how the plastics and plastics‑waste management ecosystem is transforming across the region in response to rising sustainability expectations, and what barriers still stand in the way of advancing true circularity. This conversation highlights why gatherings like the Annual GPCA Forum matter and how they can act as catalysts for long‑term, positive change.

In this episode, we cover:

- LYB’s investment journey in Saudi Arabia
- Alignment with Vision 2030 and national priorities
- Evolving plastics and waste‑management trends in the region
- Key challenges to advancing circularity
- Role of stakeholders in driving real impact

In this special episode of the GPCA Podcast held on the sidelines of the 19th Annual GPCA Forum in Bahrain, Dima Al Horani, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, GPCA, sat down with Andrew Toumazi, CEO, FGE NexantECA, as he reflects on his remarkable journey from startup founder to leader of a newly merged global consultancy at a pivotal time for the chemical sector. 

With the combination of NexantECA and FGE, Andrew discusses the latest developments and trends set to shape the future of the chemical and petrochemical industry — particularly as green chemicals, sustainability regulation, and market complexity accelerate worldwide. He shares how his entrepreneurial roots shape his perspective and why agility, innovation, and cross‑value‑chain insight are becoming essential for success. This conversation offers a timely view of what lies ahead for chemicals, energy transition, and new global opportunities.

In this episode, we cover:

- Strategic impact of the NexantECA–FGE merger

- Growth and challenges in the sustainability space

- Key forces shaping the global chemical industry

- Lessons the sector can learn from startups

In today’s world, sustainability is all around us — in headlines, boardrooms, and brand campaigns. But in the petrochemical and chemical industry, it’s a word that often sparks debate. The term greenwashing has become both a critique and a challenge. While companies make real investments in recycling technologies, carbon capture, and circular packaging, many efforts to improve our carbon footprint are dismissed as marketing tactics or accused of lacking real impact.

For young professionals entering the field, this presents a complex dilemma. How do we take pride in an industry that powers economies and innovation, while navigating accusations of greenwashing? What counts as genuine progress and what is just a label?

This podcast sets out to unpack the meaning of greenwashing and explore its implications across industry, policy, and society. We’ll examine whether recyclable and biodegradable packaging are genuine solutions, whether carbon capture is a game-changer or a “distraction”, and how media narratives shape what we believe about sustainability. And ultimately, we’ll tackle the hardest question of all: can petrochemical companies truly be part of a sustainable future?

Guest 
Abdallah Abou-Haidar
enior Regulatory Affairs, 
SABIC
Product Stewardship 
Sub-Committee Chairman, 
GPCA

Guest
Andrew Noel
Editor
chemicalESG
www.chemicalesg.com

Host
Ameena Fahad Al-Darwish
EDC/VCM Production Day 
Supervisor
EDC/VCM Plant, QAPCO |
Member, Sustainability
Sub-Council, GPCA Youth Council

As the global climate transition accelerates, few industries face a transformation as profound as the chemical
sector — especially in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. With hydrocarbons serving as both energy
source and feedstock, the industry sits among the top CO₂ emitters globally. This dual reliance makes
decarbonization uniquely complex, particularly in the GCC, where climate policy has emerged more recently.

In this episode of the GPCA Podcast, produced in partnership with dss+, we will explore why the region’s
journey is different, and how GCC chemical companies are navigating a landscape shaped by policy, rising
climate risks, and mounting pressure to adapt. Drawing from an upcoming GPCA and dss+ report “Navigating
the Climate Transition in the GCC’s Chemical Industry”, we’ll unpack how leading firms are turning climate risks
into strategic advantage. We’ll explore the enabling technologies, the risks and opportunities, and discuss
which are driving the most tangible impact today.

Experts will also address the emerging role of circular supply chains and how sustainable finance tools are
reshaping how companies fund and future-proof their operations. As GCC chemical companies seek to align
external signals with internal change, we will ask – what gives industry leaders hope that the region can not
only catch up, but lead globally.

Guest
David Rochat,
Global Director,
Sustainability Services,
dss+

Dr. Gerhard Bolt,
Global Decarbonization Lead,
dss+

Host
Dr. Sana Ben Kebaier,
Head of Economic
Research Department

For more podcasts and the latest insights on the regional chemical markets, visit www.gpca.org.ae/thought-leadership

The global trade landscape is in flux, with rising tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and shifting alliances disrupting the chemical industry like never before. For the GCC players, these changes bring both challenges and opportunities, urging them to rethink strategies, explore new partnerships, and adapt to an evolving world order.

In this episode of the GPCA Podcast, we take a deep dive into the latest US tariff policies, retaliatory measures from China and other parts of the world, and their ripple effects across international trade corridors. From supply chain fragmentation to emerging investment flows, we uncover how GCC chemical exporters can navigate volatility and secure long-term resilience.

With expert insights and real-world examples, we analyze the macroeconomic shifts shaping the industry, including geopolitical tensions, evolving compliance frameworks, and the transition toward alternative markets. What are the key levers for GCC chemical producers to stay competitive? How can companies optimize localization efforts and tap into new trade agreements? And where does sustainability fit into this rapidly changing narrative?

Whether you’re an industry professional, policymaker, or investor, this episode equips you with the intelligence to stay ahead of the curve. Join us for an in-depth discussion on trade tensions, supply chain reinvention, and the future of GCC petrochemicals in the new global paradigm.

Guest
Charles Julien, Partner,
White & Case 

Guest
Mariana Santos Moreira,
Thought Leadership Director,
Chemical Market Analytics
by OPIS

Host
Mohamed Zaman
Committees Affairs 
Specialist, GPCA

For more podcasts and the latest insights on the regional chemical markets, visit www.gpca.org.ae/thought-leadership

In an era of heightened regulatory scrutiny and digital transformation, the chemical industry is at a crossroads. Trade and supply chain leaders in the GCC region are navigating a rapidly evolving landscape, where compliance complexities and supply chain innovations intersect. The rise of digitalization, automation, and AI-driven analytics is redefining efficiency, resilience, and transparency across global chemical supply chains. However, these advancements are occurring against the backdrop of increasing regulatory pressures, including sanctions compliance, financial regulatory risks, and ethical business practices.

In this episode of the GPCA podcast we will hear from two industry experts—one from a major chemical producer and another from a consultancy specializing in compliance, trade regulations, and financial fraud—to explore the intersection of smart supply chain innovations and the evolving compliance landscape.

To explore these trends, they’ll address:

• The new era of chemical supply chains and future-proofing supply chains in the GCC region
• The expanding compliance challenges
• Bridging the gap between smart supply chains and compliance
• Strategies for enhancing transparency and resilience in global supply chains
• The future of smart supply chain innovations in the chemical industry

Guest
Haitham Fouad
Head of Supply Chain, Logistics Procurement and Facility Management – Middle East, BASF

Guest
Mohamed Daoud
Director, Industry Practice Lead, Financial Crime Compliance, Moody's

Host
Noora Mukhtar
Senior Research Specialist, 
GPCA

For more podcasts and the latest insights on the regional chemical markets, visit www.gpca.org.ae/thought-leadership

In today’s fast-evolving industrial landscape, innovation plays a crucial role in molding the future of sectors like
chemicals, particularly through a focus on sustainability and adapting to changing global dynamics. As the
industry increasingly integrates cutting-edge technologies and fosters fresh ideas, it faces the dual challenge of
aligning with global sustainability targets while responding to the heightened demand for socially responsible
business practices. This shift presents both opportunities and challenges as companies seek to evolve and stay
competitive in a rapidly changing market.

To explore these trends, GPCA brings together two leading industry experts, who will delve into the implications
of innovation on the chemical industry’s future. Drawing on their extensive experience, they’ll address:

•The role of innovation in driving sustainability and industry transformation
•The integration of emerging technologies into operations
•Strategies for meeting global sustainability goals
•The growing demand for socially responsible business practices and its impact on the chemical industry

Guest:
Dr. Wolfram Stichert
CEO, hte GmbH

Dr. Holger Bengs
CEO and Managing
Partner, BCNP
Consultants GmbH

Host
Mohamed Zaman
Senior Committees
Affairs Specialist, GPCA

For more podcasts and the latest insights on the regional chemical markets, visit www.gpca.org.ae/thought-leadership