Coinciding with the Kingdom of Bahrain’s National Day celebrations, the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) successfully concluded the 19th edition of its Annual Forum, held from 8–11 December 2025 at Exhibition World Bahrain. Notably, the milestone edition took place for the first time under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Majesty’s Representative for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs and Chairman of Bapco Energies.
A Platform for Global Industry Dialogue
Hosted by Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC), the Forum convened regional and global industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to shape the future of the chemical industry. Through focused dialogue on sustainability, digital transformation, innovation, and inclusive growth, the event reinforced Bahrain’s position as a regional hub for industrial leadership and international collaboration.
ESG Progress Takes Centre Stage
The Forum spotlighted insights from GPCA’s latest report, “Driving ESG Adoption: Progress and Challenges in the GCC Petrochemical Industry.” The findings revealed strong momentum across the region, with 79% of GCC petrochemical companies now publishing ESG reports and maintaining formal ESG committees. Furthermore, 83% have adopted the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) framework, well above the global heavy-industry average. Meanwhile, 88% have implemented responsible supply-chain systems, underscoring a commitment to transparency and accountability.
Sustainability, Carbon Markets and Innovation
Building on last year’s success, the GPCA Sustainability Pavilion returned for its second edition with dedicated Environment, Social, and Governance zones. In addition, GPCA introduced a Carbon Markets Workshop for the first time. It reflects the sector’s growing engagement with climate finance and emissions reduction mechanisms.
Empowering Youth and Advancing Inclusion
Human capital development remained a core focus throughout the Forum. The 4th GPCA Youth Forum, led by the GPCA Youth Council, drew more than 320 young professionals and students from across the Arabian Gulf. Over four days, participants engaged in mentorship, collaboration, and future-focused discussions. With 95% of GCC companies involved in community initiatives and widespread support for STEM education. The region continues to outperform global averages in youth engagement.
As per the press release, at the same time, the Forum hosted the second Women in Chemicals Workshop, delivered by McKinsey & Company in collaboration with GPCA. Held on 10 December 2025, the session explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping organizational leadership and management.
Driving the Low-Carbon Transition
Discussions highlighted the GCC petrochemical sector’s accelerating shift toward a low-carbon economy. Clean technologies, circular solutions, and renewable energy integration featured strongly. The GPCA Startup Nexus provided innovators with a platform to showcase breakthrough solutions in Circular Economy and Climate Action. Meanwhile, the 3rd GPCA Solutions Xchange facilitated strategic partnerships across plastics circularity, carbon management, and digitalization.
Leadership Perspectives and Global Participation
Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General of GPCA, said the event reflected the industry’s strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and inclusive leadership. He noted that GCC chemical companies are surpassing global benchmarks across several ESG indicators. This performance highlights the region’s ability to shape new standards for responsible growth.
A Global Platform for Strategic Alignment
Held under the theme “Catalyzing Competitiveness through Strategic Partnerships,” the 19th Annual GPCA Forum concluded successfully. It attracted 2,586 delegates from 450 companies across 42 countries. The strong turnout reaffirmed the Forum’s status as a leading global platform. It highlighted collaboration, dialogue, and strategic alignment across the chemical industry value chain.
