Export Petrochemical Products of Iran

Iran, as one of the largest producers and exporters of petrochemical products in the Middle East, plays a vital role in the global petrochemical industry. With its vast reserves of natural gas and crude oil, Iran has a significant advantage in the production of various petrochemical products. The petrochemical industry of Iran not only supports the domestic economy but also contributes substantially to the country’s non-oil exports. This article provides an overview of the key petrochemical products exported by Iran and their global market significance. Introduction Iran’s petrochemical sector is one of the most advanced in the region, supported by both natural gas and oil resources.  With over 70 years of history in the petrochemical industry, Iran is a major player in the global petrochemical trade. The country is strategically positioned, with easy access to international shipping routes via the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, which aids in the efficient export of petrochemical products.

An international trade center in Iran 

Recently, in 2025, Iran has launched a comprehensive platform called FOBino through which imports and exports can be managed. The online platform FOBino.com was established as an international trade center in Iran, enabling traders and manufacturers from around the world to easily access global markets. This platform allows Iranian producers to showcase their products and services and offer them to international consumers. Additionally, FOBino enables importers to register their needs, allowing international sellers to connect with them and use the platform for marketing and boosting sales. These features help facilitate global trade in a simple, fast, and effective manner.

10 Key Petrochemical Products Exported by Iran

1.     Methanol

 Methanol is one of the most important and widely exported petrochemical products from Iran. It is used as a raw material for the production of chemicals like formaldehyde, acetic acid, and methyl esters. The global demand for methanol has been rising, and Iran is one of the largest suppliers in the world. In 2023, Iran’s methanol production capacity stood at over 7 million tons per year, making it a significant player in the methanol export market.

2.     Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene is a key plastic used in a variety of applications, including packaging materials, films, containers, and bottles. Iran exports large quantities of polyethylene to international markets, primarily in Asia, Europe, and Africa. As one of the most widely used plastics in the world, the demand for polyethylene is robust, and Iran’s competitive advantage lies in its ability to produce high-quality polyethylene at a lower cost compared to many other regions.

3.     Polypropylene (PP)

Polypropylene is another significant petrochemical export from Iran. It is widely used in the automotive, textile, packaging, and construction industries. Iran’s polypropylene production capacity is over 3 million tons per year, and the country is among the top 10 global producers. Polypropylene’s versatility and growing demand in various industries make it an essential export commodity.

4.     Urea

Urea, a key nitrogen fertilizer, is one of Iran’s largest petrochemical exports. With a growing global population and increasing agricultural activity, the demand for urea has risen significantly. Iran’s urea production capacity exceeds 5 million tons annually, and it is one of the world’s top exporters of this product. Urea is primarily exported to markets in Asia, Europe, and Africa.

5.     Ammonia

Ammonia is another critical chemical produced from natural gas, and Iran is one of the leading exporters of ammonia globally. Ammonia is a key ingredient in the production of fertilizers and is also used in a variety of industrial applications. The global demand for ammonia continues to grow, particularly in agricultural markets where it is used to produce ammonium nitrate and other fertilizers.

6.     Butadiene

Butadiene is a petrochemical used in the production of synthetic rubber, which is vital for the automotive industry and the production of tires. Iran produces and exports significant quantities of butadiene, contributing to the global supply chain for rubber and plastics manufacturing. With the increasing global demand for vehicles and tires, Iran’s butadiene exports continue to grow.

7.     Styrene

 Styrene is another important petrochemical exported by Iran. It is used in the production of plastics, resins, and synthetic rubbers. Iran’s styrene production facilities are among the largest in the region, and the country is a significant supplier to markets in Asia and Europe. Styrene’s growing use in packaging and construction materials further boosts its demand globally.

8.     Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

Iran is also a major exporter of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which is widely used as a cooking fuel, in heating, and as a feedstock in various industrial processes. LPG is produced from natural gas processing and crude oil refining. Iran’s strategic location along key shipping routes in the Persian Gulf makes it a crucial supplier of LPG to neighboring regions and global markets.

9.     Ethylene Oxide Ethylene oxide

is used as a precursor for the production of various chemicals, including antifreeze and detergents. Iran produces ethylene oxide from its vast natural gas reserves, and this chemical is widely exported to international markets. The demand for ethylene oxide continues to rise due to its applications in automotive and household products.

10.  Sulfur

Sulfur is another important byproduct of Iran’s petrochemical industry. It is used in the production of sulfuric acid, which is widely used in industrial applications, including the manufacture of fertilizers, chemicals, and petroleum refining. Iran’s sulfur production capacity is extensive, and the country is one of the largest exporters of sulfur in the world.

 Market Trends and Future Outlook

 The global petrochemical market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by industrialization, urbanization, and the increasing demand for plastics and chemicals. Iran, with its vast natural gas resources, is well-positioned to take advantage of this growth and expand its petrochemical exports. However, international sanctions continue to pose challenges for Iran’s petrochemical industry. These sanctions have limited Iran’s access to global markets and financial systems, making it difficult for many companies to engage in trade. Despite these challenges, Iran’s petrochemical industry remains resilient, and new opportunities are emerging as global demand for petrochemical products increases.

Conclusion

Iran is a key player in the global petrochemical market, with a wide range of products that are essential to various industries worldwide. The country’s abundant natural gas resources, advanced production facilities, and strategic location position it as a major exporter of petrochemical products. As global demand for petrochemical products continues to rise, Iran’s petrochemical exports are expected to grow, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and its position in the global market. Despite challenges posed by international sanctions, the country’s petrochemical sector remains an essential part of the global supply chain, providing critical products to industries across the world. As trade relations evolve and sanctions are addressed, Iran’s role as a major petrochemical exporter is likely to strengthen further.

Finally, you can visit the FOBino platform to find producers and exporters of petrochemical products, oil, gas, and more. It allows you to easily engage in trade with sellers and buyers of petrochemical and refining products.