Construction Begins on MAK's $550 Million PTA/PET Project in Oman

Germany's MAK Group has initiated the construction of a $550 million integrated purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) complex at the Sohar Port Freezone in Oman. This project marks a strategic relocation of production capacity from Europe to the Middle East, aiming to capitalize on lower operational costs and strategic market access.

The complex, with a capacity of 1.5 million tonnes per year, will include facilities for both PTA and PET production. The move follows the closure of MAK's Rotterdam plant in 2024 due to high energy costs and environmental taxes in Europe. By relocating to Oman, MAK aims to benefit from reduced feedstock and energy costs, with Oman’s state-owned OQ providing paraxylene (PX) feedstock via direct pipeline.

The Sohar Port and Freezone offer integrated logistics and infrastructure, supporting the project's ambition to serve markets in Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia. This development aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040, which focuses on industrial diversification and enhancing downstream petrochemical capabilities.