Speaking at a ceremony to inaugurate the new head of the PSEZ
organization on Friday, Abbaszadeh highlighted the strategic role of the
petrochemical industry in driving Iran’s economic and industrial development.
“Guided by the Supreme Leader’s call to move away from crude sales and
prioritize value chain completion, the petrochemical sector has leveraged its
full potential for balanced growth,” he said.
Capacity Growth and Key Projects
Abbaszadeh noted that Iran’s petrochemical production capacity has
reached approximately 100 million tons annually. Under the 7th Development
Plan, the country aims to expand this capacity by 30 million tons, bringing it
to 131 million tons.
The deputy minister underscored the significance of Mahshahr and the
PSEZ as major hubs of petrochemical activity, producing essential and versatile
products for domestic consumption. He also highlighted the upcoming NGL3100
project, which will play a critical role in supplying feedstock to the PSEZ.
New Leadership and Local Engagement
During the ceremony, Abbaszadeh introduced Mohammadreza Motiri as the
new acting head of the PSEZ organization, succeeding Payam Barzegar.
Emphasizing Motiri’s local roots, he called for cooperation and synergy between
the new leadership and regional stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition.
“Selecting a manager from the local community brings advantages but
also greater challenges,” Abbaszadeh said, urging local managers and officials
to collaborate with the new leadership.
Social Responsibility and Private Investment
Abbaszadeh stressed the importance of private sector investment in
developing the petrochemical industry. He called for a conducive environment to
attract investors and reduce unnecessary restrictions. He also urged
petrochemical companies in the PSEZ to fulfill their social responsibility
commitments and engage actively with the local community.
Economic Impact and Expansion
The second phase of the PSEZ is set to double the zone’s size,
fostering economic growth and job creation in the region. Abbaszadeh emphasized
that the PSEZ is ready to collaborate with governmental and private entities to
maximize its capacity and ensure the well-being of local communities.
Voices from Stakeholders
Amir Hayat Moqaddam, a member of parliament representing Mahshahr, reiterated
the need to prioritize local employment and expedite the PSEZ expansion.
“Petrochemical companies must take employment and social responsibilities
seriously and act on their commitments,” he said.
Outgoing PSEZ director Payam Barzegar highlighted significant
achievements during his tenure, including advancements in infrastructure,
innovation, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility
initiatives. He noted that a people-centered approach had been firmly
established in the region.
Incoming head Mohammadreza Motiri pledged to foster unity and
cooperation to achieve transformative growth in the PSEZ. “We aim to implement
strategic plans in a spirit of solidarity,” he said.
The PSEZ’s development aligns with national objectives to reduce
dependency on raw material exports, strengthen local economies, and position
Iran as a regional petrochemical leader.