January 23, 2025 – The 17th Arab Plastics, Petrochemicals, Recycling, and Sustainability Exhibition (ArabPlast 2025) concluded successfully in Dubai on January 9th. The event was marked by significant achievements, including multiple cooperation agreements signed between UAE, Gulf region, and European petrochemical companies, totaling over 100 million Dirhams (approximately 200 million RMB), aimed at promoting the production of eco-friendly raw materials and supporting sustainability goals.
Spanning three days, the exhibition attracted over 750 renowned enterprises from 35 countries worldwide, covering the plastics, petrochemicals, and recycling sectors. The venue buzzed with activity, welcoming more than 25,000 professionals and industry experts. Notably, the number of local exhibitors also increased, reaching over 50.
According to insights from the Color Masterbatch Industry Network, environmental policies and technological advancements have emerged as the two core driving forces behind the transformation of the plastics industry. This trend is not only encouraging companies to adopt more sustainable production and recycling models but also stimulating innovation across various links in the chain. Exhibitors unanimously expressed that this would contribute to the green development of the entire industry.
Khalid Kabbi, Executive Director of “Ecopolymers” and “Ecopatch,” emphasized that plastics, as an indispensable material in modern life, are facing severe environmental challenges. He called for the promotion of recycling and waste sorting, especially in the food-related sector, where health standards must be strictly adhered to ensure consumer safety. Additionally, the heightened environmental awareness among consumers is pushing companies to adopt more sustainable technologies and measures.
Bassar Gadawala, General Manager of “FAM Recycling,” highlighted the significance of AI technology in the field of plastic recycling. He stated that by tracing the source of plastic waste, AI can reduce landfill volumes and significantly lower recycling costs. Furthermore, he revealed that a globally unified recycling policy, formulated under the United Nations framework, is expected to be introduced by the end of this year. This will facilitate countries in adopting effective recycling strategies, reducing industry costs, and enhancing market competitiveness.
Yamano Ade, the representative from the Japanese company “Shibaura Machine,” shared the application of AI and automation technologies in plastic manufacturing. He noted that through remote monitoring and automation, the company can reduce reliance on human resources and lower operational costs. Ade also believed that the exhibition provided a valuable platform for businesses and customers to exchange ideas, and that AI would play a crucial role in expansion projects such as lightweight materials for food packaging.
As the largest plastics and petrochemicals exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa region, ArabPlast is held annually in Dubai. It not only showcases the latest developments in the industry but also provides a platform for outlooking the prospects for the coming years. The new products and technologies introduced at this year’s exhibition fully reflect the importance of environmental consciousness and sustainable development concepts.