Egypt's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, inspected on Thursday, petrochemical complexes in Alexandria, stressing that expanding production capacities would generate economic value and secure raw materials for local industries. During visits to Sidi Kerir Petrochemicals Company (SIDPEC) and the Egyptian Linear Alkyl Benzene Co. (ELAB), Badawi said the sector is a key pillar of the ministry's strategy, converting gas into higher-value products that support multiple industries. He noted that maximising plant capacities and exploring expansion opportunities would cut import costs, boost exports, and strengthen domestic supply. He highlighted the role of innovative technology, infrastructure, and investment incentives in increasing output, while emphasising the need for a clear vision to exploit derivative-rich gas for value-added industries. At SIDPEC, he toured the ethylene and polyethylene plants, which have been vital to localising this industry in Egypt for more than 25 years. He also inspected ELAB, which produces detergent feedstock LAB for the local market and exports, along with a project to expand storage capacity to counter global price fluctuations and optimise sales. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
