Omid Shakeri, the CEO of the National Petrochemical Company, addressed reporters and explained the current state of the petrochemical industry following the damages incurred during the war, mentioning the reconstruction of utilities and stating: "We are regularly monitoring the reconstruction process."
Efforts to Restore Lost Capacities
Shakeri added: "In Assaluyeh and Mahshahr, which are considered the two petrochemical hubs of the country, the reconstruction process is being carried out well. The aim is to recover a significant portion of the lost capacities by the end of this year." He also stated that about 60% of the lost capacities have returned to operation so far. This summer, part of the production decline occurred due to electricity issues, and in winter, we will also face gas limitations due to enemy damages to the refining industry.
Read more: The Energy Pulse Campaign has entered its third year of implementation
Tougher Conditions for Petrochemicals
The CEO of the National Petrochemical Company pointed out the existing limitations in winter, saying: "Every year in this season, restrictions were imposed due to household consumption. This year, the situation is tougher as 230 million cubic meters of refining capacity have been lost, which has been partially restored with the efforts of colleagues in the National Gas and Oil Company. However, there are still significant shortages." Shakeri stated that they are trying to mitigate this capacity reduction for petrochemicals, but the reality is that conditions for the petrochemical industry will be tougher.
He also mentioned that for this reason, the "Energy Pulse" campaign has been launched and requested the public to support this national movement by reducing energy consumption for industries and petrochemicals.
Return of Export Revenues
Shakeri regarding the return of export revenues from petrochemicals said: "The petrochemical industry is separate from the issue of currency return and trusts. Petrochemicals are both producers and exporters of products and return the currency. All of this process is also under the supervision of the Central Bank." He added: "There is no problem in this regard; however, the occurrence of war and siege has created challenges for the exports of this industry. With the efforts made in various sectors, we have tried to keep exports stable and ensure the return of currency to meet the country's various currency needs." Shakeri concluded by saying: "Petrochemicals have always returned the remaining currency except for the amount allowed by the Central Bank for their consumption needs. The country's regulations regarding currency return have always been enforced."
Read more: Rahim Safavi clarified the role of the oil industry in Iran's power equation · Expo 2026 Shiraz will focus on export-oriented industries
