Iran has one of the largest reserves of oil and natural gas in the world. SO, it plays a vital role in the global energy market. Iran’s petrochemical industry includes methanol, urea polyethylene, and many other chemicals. These petrochemical products are in high demand in the global market, especially in Asia.
Iran has a strong base for petrochemical production and is active in this field, despite sanctions and trade limits. Many petrochemical buyers rely on Iranian chemical products. Iran has also invested in new plants and technologies to increase output.
At PITCO Shanghai, we help companies connect with suppliers and buyers in this sector. We offer trade consulting, logistics support, and help with rules and regulations. Our team is based in Iran and understands the local market well.
In this post, we will look at the latest trends in petrochemical exports from Iran. We’ll also explain the main challenges and how to overcome them. With the right partner, entering this market can be a smart move.
The Main Iranian Polymer Products for Export
polymer products are the main part of Iranian petrochemical exports. The main products of Iran’s polymer for export are:
Polyethylene
Iran is one of the major producers and exporters of polyethylene in the Middle East due to its vast hydrocarbon resources. Generally, 3 types of polyethylene are produced and exported in Iran. Each has distinct applications and properties.
| Type | Property | Use |
|---|---|---|
| High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) | High strength, rigidity, and chemical resistance. | production of pipes, bottles, containers, crates, and industrial packaging. |
| Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) | Flexible, soft, and transparent with good impact resistance. | film applications, plastic bags, wrapping materials, and squeeze bottles. |
| Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) | Greater tensile strength and impact resistance compared to LDPE. | Ideal for stretch films, garbage bags, food packaging, and agricultural films. |
Despite facing international sanctions, polyethylene suppliers export their products to a wide range of countries across Asia, Europe.
Polypropylene (PP)
Iran is one of the leading exporters of polypropylene (PP) in the Middle East due to its rich natural gas reserves. Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer derived from propylene. It is in high demand globally due to its strength, lightweight properties, and resistance to chemicals and heat.
Different grades of PP such as homopolymers and copolymers, are produced in Iran. These products are commonly used in industries such as automotive, packaging, textiles, and consumer goods. Polypropylene (PP) from Iran is exported to China, Turkey, India, Pakistan, and Central Asian countries.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
The high quality and affordable cost of Iran’s Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) has made the country a reliable and competitive exporter of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) in the world. Iran has vast natural gas reserves and developed petrochemical infrastructure. Therefore, the country is able to produce a range of PVC grades suitable for construction, electrical insulation, packaging, and synthetic leather industries.
Iran’s geographic position, Iran government support of the petrochemical export sector, and production of high-quality polymer materials has provided an attractive and profitable environment for foreign buyers and investors. The primary export destinations for Iranian PVC include China, India, Turkey, Pakistan, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
Polystyrene (PS)
Polystyrene is widely used in packaging, insulation, electronics, and disposable consumer products. Iran accesses essential feedstock like ethylene and benzene and is able to produce and export both General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS) and High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) to meet various industrial needs.
Turkey, India, China, Pakistan, and CIS countries are the key export destinations for Iranian PS.
The Main Iranian Chemical Products for Export
Iran produces and exports many different chemical products to global markets due to its vast natural gas and petroleum resources. The primary Iranian chemical exports are:
Methanol
Iran is one of the top global producers and exporters of methanol. This important product is used in formaldehyde, acetic acid, and fuel applications. Methanol from Iran is mainly exported to China, India, and Southeast Asia.
Ethylene
Ethylene is a key chemical product that is used in the production of plastics and industrial chemicals. Iran plays a strategic role in regional ethylene production. Ethylene derivations like ethylene glycol or ethylene dichloride, are exported to regional countries such as India, China, and neighboring countries.
Ammonia
Ammonia is a critical material that is used in agriculture and industry. Iran exports Ammonia both as raw ammonia and as urea fertilizer. India, Turkey, Brazil, and Pakistan are the major buyers of Iran’s ammonia.
Caustic Soda (Sodium Hydroxide)
Caustic Soda is widely used in paper, textiles, and detergents. Iran exports its Caustic Soda to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and Armenia.
Sulfur
Sulfur is a byproduct of oil and gas refining and used in fertilizers and chemicals. China, India, Bangladesh, and Kenya are the major export destinations.
Sodium Carbonate (Soda Ash)
Sodium Carbonate is the main material of glass and detergent production. It is primary exported to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and Armenia.
PITCO Shanghai: Your export facilitator
Parsian International Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (PITCO Shanghai), with 14 years of experience in international trade, helps international buyers engage with Iranian suppliers while reducing the risk of international sanctions and ensuring full legal transparency.
are ready to provide you with services. Our trading consultant services support you in all export stages, from getting permits to shipping. Call us.
polymer products are the main part of Iranian petrochemical exports. The main products of Iran’s polymer for export are: Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polyvinyl Chloride and Polystyrene.
The primary Iranian chemical exports are: Methanol, Ethylene, Ammonia, Caustic Soda, Sulfur and Sodium Carbonate.
PITCO Shanghai, with 14 years of experience in international trade, helps international buyers engage with Iranian suppliers while reducing the risk of international sanctions and ensuring full legal transparency.
