Abu Dhabi's main petroleum chemical firm has announced a number of expansion projects that will ramp up production to 4.5 million tonnes by 2013, trebling its current output.

Speaking to Emirates Business, the company's chief executive officer Abdul Aziz Al Hajri said that the expansion plans were part of a commitment to long-term growth that would not be waylaid by current weakness in the oil and gas industry.

He added: "Firstly, the priority is to remain focused on our long-term goals and avoid distraction. Secondly, we focus on the most efficient and effective management of our operations."

As the company moves ahead with the projects, a wide-scale recruitment and training drive is also likely to provide support for economic recovery in Abu Dhabi.

In furtherance of its commitment to training and development, the company established the Gulf Plastics Pipe Academy to provide educational support, knowledge sharing, standardisation and certification for those working in the petroleum chemicals industry.

Getenergy event for GCC countries November 2009