Kuwait Petrochemicals

Executive Summary

Kuwait is a country blessed with abundant oil resources. The Government of Kuwait has given thrust to sectors such as Petrochemicals, which can make use of the cheap feedstock available. Petrochemicals sector has been developed as part of the export diversification strategy of the Kuwait government. Kuwait has made persistent efforts to improve and enhance its Petrochemicals sector at par with the regional players in GCC. The government is implementing a "Strategy 2002-2020” for the development of sector. In this report, we have analysed the opportunities for the sector in the form of upcoming joint ventures, increasing synergies for petrochemical and refining integration and the cost advantage enjoyed by the Kuwait Petrochemical companies. The report also covers the government policies and initiatives which impact the functioning of the sector.

The report discusses in detail the challenges faced in the form of volatility in prices of feedstock and increasing competition among the players in GCC and the opportunities that can be utilized by Petrochemical Industries Corporation (PIC) for future growth. Recent developments such as the construction of Al Zhor refinery and Olefins -III complex which are expected to give a major thrust to the development of Kuwait petrochemicals sector is discussed.