SABIC is considering investments in the United States to capitalise on the shale gas boom there. Mohamed al-Mady, CEO of SABIC, sees a slowdown in the growth of petrochemicals in the short term in his home market. SABIC might look for investment or for joint ventures.

The company will continue to plan new projects in Saudi Arabia, such as a polyacetal (POM) plastic facility in Jubail and synthetic glass (PMMA/MMA) and carbon-fibre projects in Yanbu.

• Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia