Orpic to invest $5 billion for new plants in Oman

Orpic is expected to play a role in achieving, enhancing and growing the business to serve the market better in Oman. Mr. Al Mahruqi underscored several aspects comprising petrochemicals building block, petrochemicals to everyday products, Orpic downstream value chain, Orpic growth strategy, and Sohar Plastics Project.

He outlined the development witnessed in Orpic throughout the years, and elaborated on Sohar Refinery Upgrade, which is estimated to cost $1.5 billion and it is anticipated to be completed by the year 2016. "The benefits expected from this project include improved refining process to cater for heavier crude, improved environmental performance, more fuels produced (70% increase), ability to produce Bitumen for local market, increased production of Polypropylene, and less imports of Naphtha as feedstock to Aromatics," Mr. Al Mahruqi said.

He also touched upon Sohar Plastics Project, which is expected to be completed in 2018. The project is estimated to cost  $3.6 billion, and it attempts to achieve improved Refinery and Petrochemical integration, optimisation of existing production plants, optimisation of Natural Gas components, attractive economic returns, and potential for downstream plastics.