The Middle East is a major contributor to global polyvinyl chloride (PVC) capacity additions by 2030, driven primarily by cost-competitive feedstocks and booming domestic infrastructure. While Asia drives the largest absolute volume of new capacity additions, the Middle East holds a vital leadership position in export-oriented capacity and large-scale regional consumption.

The Middle East’s dominance in the PVC industry is supported by five upcoming projects that are being planned in Iran, the UAE and Qatar. Iran is positioned to lead, with its three projects in Khuzestan province. Two of these projects are proposed by Basparan Bandar imam Co and are expected to commence operations in 2028. Whereas the third project is being planned by Arvand Petrochemical Co and is likely to begin operations next year.

The entire capacity addition in the UAE, however, is expected from a single project in Abu Dhabi — the Taziz EDC and PVC Ruwais PVC plant. Abu Dhabi Chemical Derivatives Co RSC Ltd is the designated operator of this project that is likely to account for the highest capacity addition in the region. The project is currently awaiting approval and is anticipated to come on stream in 2028.

The remaining capacity addition in the Middle East is anticipated to be from the Qatar Vinyl Company Mesaieed PVC plant. Located in the state of Qatar, this project is likely to come online this year. Qatar Vinyl Company Ltd is the designated operator of this project while QatarEnergy holds the entire equity stake.

Further details of global propylene capacity and capex analysis can be found in GlobalData’s new report, 'Global PVC Industry: Capacity and Capital Expenditure Forecasts with Details of All Active and Planned Plants, 2026-2030'.