The Kingdom is a major producer of polypropylene (PP) with a proven track record of world-class assets and performance. PP, being the primary plastic form used in ICE passenger cars by volume, this proposed strategy will help local PP resin manufacturers and compounding units to generate domestic demand and collaborate with OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers.

Saudi Arabia also has local manufacturing capabilities for polyamide (6 and 66), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), and polyoxymethylene (POM), and serves as a supply-chain enabler for under-the-hood, interior and exterior applications, providing opportunities for conversion value chains. The localization of this ecosystem could also unlock opportunities for performance polymers and thermoset resins.

The global catalysts industry is entering a new phase of growth driven by energy transition, environmental regulations, and the rising demand for advanced polymers and specialty chemicals. From cleaner fuels to functional plastics and green hydrogen, catalysts are enabling the industrial transformation of tomorrow.

Frost & Sullivan’s latest global analysis of the catalysts industry highlights that the industry is poised to grow from $30.99 billion in 2023 to $43.89 billion by 2030. This expansion is underpinned by strong refinery capacity additions, increasing polyolefin demand, and regulatory mandates for cleaner fuels.

As 2025 unfolds, the chemicals and materials industry is undergoing a seismic shift, where sustainability, digitalization, and supply chain resilience are no longer megatrends but imperatives. Circular materials, smart automation, and AI-driven innovation are not just enhancing efficiency, they are rewriting the rules of competition. Meanwhile, raw material shortages and regulatory pressures are pushing businesses to rethink sourcing, production, and value creation at every level.

The chemicals, materials, nutrition, and wellness industries are entering a golden age, fueled by innovations like improved manufacturing equipment, sustainability factors reshaping industrial focus, and shifting consumer preferences towards digitized and eco-friendly solutions.

This multifaceted ecosystem is growing to include durable raw materials, advanced coatings, bioplastics, and novel supplement types — all forming the backbone of industries such as automotive, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.