Speaking Monday, at the event “Assessing the Digital Maturity of Industries and Businesses in the Seventh Development Plan,” Alimorad said widespread technological changes require industries to embrace digital transformation. “Governance structures must be redefined so that a digital mindset can take root,” he said.

Alimorad noted that digital transformation, while full of opportunities, also brings challenges. “The first challenge is ensuring the fair distribution of digital achievements so all regions and social groups benefit,” he said. “The second challenge concerns the economic and environmental consequences of this transformation. The third—and perhaps most important—is maintaining the central role of humans in the age of artificial intelligence. If technology slips beyond human control, the consequences can be irreversible.”

AI should drive digital development in industry

Referring to the core technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Alimorad said artificial intelligence and computer technologies must form the foundation of digital development in the petrochemical sector.

He added that NPC has identified four key infrastructures for digital transformation: precision measurement equipment, communication systems between devices, control protocols, and the integration of artificial intelligence to optimize processes. “The first three already exist across petrochemical complexes, but the fourth—AI integration—requires further development and collaboration between the petrochemical industry and knowledge-based institutions,” he said.

Alimorad pointed to several ongoing NPC initiatives in this area, including cooperation with the Research Institute for ICT, the development of language models, the creation of an intelligent assistant for the sales system, deployment of a smart project management system, and implementation of an AI-driven pricing system for petrochemical products.

AI assistant to improve resource, time management

Alimorad identified financial and time management as major challenges in implementing petrochemical projects. “Some projects take more than 10 years to complete,” he said. “While sanctions have played a part, weaknesses in project control are also a factor. An AI assistant can play a significant role in resource planning and precise project scheduling.”

He concluded that NPC aims to move toward intelligent, high-efficiency technologies, transparent production chain management, and data-driven strategic decision-making. “This approach will enhance the petrochemical industry’s economic and environmental performance and ultimately contribute to national economic growth,” Alimorad said.