Saudi Arabia is undergoing major redirection in its industrial orientation in line with the current income diversification strategy that constitutes a fundamental pillar in achieving the Kingdom's Vision 2030. The Kingdom is also working on enhancing public-private partnerships in addition to encouraging, supporting and attracting foreign investments that enables it to become the "plastic consumer goods" manufacturing hub, and create employment opportunities for the Saudi youth. Recent research has shown that Saudi Arabia's share in the petrochemicals world supply is currently 6% with the possibility of growing at exponential levels due to its hydrocarbons wealth. Moreover, the Gulf Petrochemicals & Chemicals Association (GPCA) report stated that Saudi Arabia's plastics capacity is also expected to see a 3.2 percent rise per year till 2020. Accordingly, the 14th edition of the Saudi Print & Pack and The Saudi Plastics & Petrochemicals exhibitions comes as an excellent platform to highlight this promising market, and to stress on the importance of the research efforts and recent trends carried out by leading national companies that drastically contribute to boosting the industries, enhancing the productivity, and maximizing the exports. These efforts are accompanied by the government's support to develop these industries by providing the necessary infrastructure through industrial clusters and cities. To be held under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources on Feb. 27- March 2, 2017 at the Jeddah Center for Forums & Events, these UFI certified exhibitions are organized by Riyadh Exhibitions Company Ltd. These leading industrial events bring together decision makers and leading companies from KSA and around the globe and enjoy a golden sponsorship from Saudi diversified manufacturing company (SABIC) and a platinum sponsorship from Saudi Polymers and the participation of the Saudi Industrial Property Authority (MODON) as an industrial partner. As a leading company in the petrochemical sector, SABIC's participation comes in line with its commitment to support the manufacturing industry in Saudi Arabia. As the major provider of basic materials needed by manufacturers to develop high quality products for end users, SABIC develops innovative products through its 21 global technology and innovation centers. The company has also launched the Home of Innovation, an initiative that promotes economic growth and technical innovation in Saudi Arabia. It is designed to foster collaboration with other leading companies and targets opportunities that address regional and local challenges. Sami Al Husseini, marketing and corporate communication director in the Saudi Industrial Property Authority (MODON), said: "The government has a high determination and direction to develop the manufacturing industry, as stated in the National Transformation 2020 program and the Kingdom's Vision 2030." Husseini further said: "What adds to the attractiveness and feasibility of the industrial investments is the support provided by several governmental authorities, in addition to the ideal infrastructure that the Kingdom provides, the abundance of industrial locations with integrated services, the bundle of lending and custom exemptions, the increased swiftness in delivering the lands, and the minimization of obstacles and procedures." Riyadh Exhibitions Co. Ltd. (REC) is a Saudi company specialized in organizing exhibitions, conferences and other trade events. The company caters to several activities for various economic sectors. Throughout its 36 years, REC has organized more than 440 unique and successful shows and conferences renowned for their innovation, professionalism and attention to details. REC boasts an international presence, supported by over 120 commercial & industrial bodies from more than 50 countries. Regionally, REC dominates with its wide range of events programs, serving 20 economic and financial sectors in the Middle East. REC's leading events are certified by UFI. — SG
