Pakistan's chemical industry has the potential to generate more than $2 billion in additional exports and replace up to $5 billion worth of imports over the next five years through investment and technology transfer, industry leaders said while announcing the Pakistan Chemical Expo 2026.
The Pakistan Chemical Manufacturers Association (PCMA) said the two-day expo will be held at the Lahore Expo Centre on June 5 and 6 to showcase the capabilities of the country's chemical sector and promote industrial growth, innovation and international partnerships.
The announcement was made during a press conference at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended by Chamber President Faheem-ur-Rehman Sehgal, PCMA Chairman Haroon Ali Khan, Expo Committee Chairman Anas Mahmood and other industry representatives.
Speakers said the targets could be achieved through innovative investments, technology transfer and the establishment of large-scale projects, including a naphtha cracker and petrochemical complex.
Faheem-ur-Rehman Sehgal said the chemical industry had significant potential to reduce Pakistan's dependence on imports and boost exports.
"If effective planning and investment are made in this sector, it can become an important pillar of sustainable economic growth," he said, adding that the expo was aimed at promoting industrial self-reliance, innovation and economic development.
Haroon Ali Khan said the event reflected the industry's commitment to positioning Pakistan as a competitive player in the global chemical sector.
He said Pakistan's chemical and petrochemical market was valued at more than $14 billion, while over half of domestic demand was being met through imports, resulting in annual import bills ranging from $14 billion to $15 billion.
Anas Mahmood said the expo would provide local businesses with access to international markets, modern technologies and potential global partners.
He said the event would feature business-to-business meetings, product exhibitions, technical seminars, panel discussions and policy dialogues aimed at supporting the growth of the chemical industry.
Organisers said the expo would bring together manufacturers, investors, policymakers and international stakeholders to explore opportunities for expansion and collaboration in one of Pakistan's key industrial sectors.