Hossein Afshin made the remarks on Tuesday, during a press conference for "Petrofan 1403," noting that the event signals a new path for the petrochemical industry.

He described the petrochemical sector as a leading industry in the country, contributing not only significantly to foreign currency earnings but also playing a key role in completing downstream value chains and generating added value.

However, the official pointed out that some value chains remain incomplete, which can be attributed to a lack of budgetary resources or policies focusing only on short-term profits, neglecting the value chain.

Afshin identified one of the major challenges in the petrochemical industry as a lack of investment in research and development (R&D) and new technologies.

He emphasized that technology is advancing rapidly, and failure to adapt could lead to serious long-term problems. "An industry that doesn't take research and innovation seriously is doomed to fail," he said, adding that the move toward smartification in petrochemicals is a significant step in this regard.

The official emphasized that his office is ready to implement the AI-driven movement in the petrochemical sector, leveraging emerging technologies to boost efficiency and lower production costs.

Innovation should not be just for show

Afshin also highlighted that one of the main features of the Petrofan conference is the recognition of innovative managers, adding that this recognition is not merely symbolic but aims to identify and highlight managers who have successfully implemented innovation.

"What matters here is not the value of the award, but the credibility and brand that this recognition brings to the innovative managers," he said.

Additionally, Afshin discussed the importance of addressing technological needs in the petrochemical industry and the role of knowledge-based companies in meeting these strategic technological requirements as another key aspect of the conference.

Focusing on the importance of such events, he said, "All major developments in the world stem from these types of conferences and showcases. Today’s world is one of exposure and introduction, as it is through these platforms that information exchange takes place. However, we must be cautious that innovation in industry does not become mere window dressing. Establishing innovation centers without tangible results will only waste resources."

Afshin also noted that the event serves as a platform for interaction between technology-based companies, researchers, academics, and the petrochemical industry.

"Looking at the past three editions, Petrofan has shown a positive and successful upward trajectory, and this year, it will continue with even more momentum. I hope the outcomes of this event and the upcoming exhibition will bring about significant transformations in the country’s petrochemical industry."

At the end of the event, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the Science, Technology and Knowledge-based Economy Vice-Presidency and the Persian Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company.

The "Petrofan 1403" conference, under the slogan "Path of Innovation in Petrochemical Industry," will be held from December 22-24 at the National Iranian Oil Company’s International Conference Center, in collaboration with the Persian Gulf Petrochemical Industries Group and the Science, Technology and Knowledge-based Economy Vice-Presidency.