Speaking at the Second Process Safety Management Conference,
Abbaszadeh emphasized the advanced safety protocols in Iran's petrochemical
sector.
He stated that despite global pressures, the country's diverse
petrochemical production and markets are set to yield strong export revenues by
the end of the Iranian calendar year 1403 (March 2025).
"Given the significant capacity for methanol production in Iran,
we are actively pursuing projects to convert methanol to gasoline (MTG) as a
viable solution to address fuel supply imbalances," he noted.
Abbaszadeh underscored the importance of managing fuel consumption,
suggesting that while MTG technology is a key strategy, other methods could
also enhance domestic gasoline production. He revealed that a team was
dispatched last year to negotiate the acquisition of MTG technology from a
leading country, resulting in five companies currently registered to establish
MTG facilities in Iran.
As part of the government's incentive framework, Abbaszadeh announced
a sliding discount of approximately 16-17% for these projects, aimed at
enhancing their viability.
He explained that second-hand MTG units could also be imported,
provided they comply with the National Petrochemical Company's standards. This
approach allows investors to bring a unit into operation within approximately
18 months, compared to a three-year timeline for new facilities.
Abbaszadeh further stated that the capacity for each MTG unit stands
at 200,000 tons, with plans for the National Petrochemical Company to issue
permits for up to eight such units.
Addressing regional security concerns, particularly threats from
Israel against Iran's oil industry, Abbaszadeh reassured that Iran’s military
capabilities provide a robust defense. He characterized the recent visit by the
Minister of Oil to the Pars region as a routine operational trip, emphasizing
the necessity for ongoing precautionary measures in the petrochemical sector.
“While the
petrochemical industry is at the forefront of process safety, the presence of
hazardous materials necessitates heightened vigilance,” he remarked.
Abbaszadeh concluded by reaffirming that, despite international
sanctions, there are no barriers to exporting petrochemical products, which are
being sent to various countries, promising a solid influx of foreign currency
for the nation in the coming year.