Converting sustainable development into value for Gulf fertilizer producers will be the theme of the Third Annual GPCA Fertilizer Convention, organized by the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) in Dubai from September 17-19, 2012.
The convention will focus on developing long-term strategies to realise further industry growth, as well as opportunities for collaboration between industry players.
"The Gulf is undergoing massive expansion of fertilizer capacity, with the region heading for an estimated 7.5% annual growth in production capacity by 2016. In response to this, companies are looking to develop long-term strategies to provide a framework for sustainable growth of the regional industry," said Dr. Abdulwahab Al Sadoun, Secretary General of the GPCA.
"The Third GPCA Fertilizer Convention will host a wide variety of distinguished international speakers representing producers and their stakeholders, providing for a stimulating debate on how such measured and sustainable development can be achieved."
Dr. Al Sadoun added: "This year's theme will address many of the issues facing the region as it increases its importance as a major fertilizer production hub."
According to the GPCA, total production of fertilizers products is expected to reach nearly 32 million tons by 2016, compared to 21 million tons in 2011. Moreover, the Gulf is expected to account for 36% of global urea exports and 24% of the world trade in phosphate fertilizers by 2016.
But the global economic downturn and political and economic uncertainty in both the Arab world and Europe present significant near-term challenges to growth.
The convention will address these and other critical industry questions, including the role of the Gulf fertilizer industry in meeting rapidly growing world food demand. The Food and Agriculture Organization claims food production will need to increase by 70% by 2050 in order to feed an extra 2.3 billion people.
The outlook for key emerging markets such as India, China, Africa and South America will also be assessed during the convention, alongside trends in global agriculture, together with their implications for the Middle East fertilizer sector.
"Adopting best practices to ensure the industry's long-term sustainability in an uncertain economic climate is crucial," said Dr. Al Sadoun.
Major industry organisations confirmed to present at the Third Annual Convention include The International Fertilizer Industry Association (IFA), SABIC , Ma'aden, Unilever, GPIC, CNCIC, EtherChem (Beijing), Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), Stamicarbon, Iraq Geological Survey, and Nalco. CRU, the event co-organisers and analysts, will also present in-depth market insights at the convention.