Bespar / Iran Polymer – The 19th edition of IranPlast came to an end—an exhibition that, while reflecting today’s social and economic conditions of the country, also presented a glimpse of the future and the capacities of Iran’s polymer industry.
One of the positive aspects this year was the more visible presence of the younger generation alongside experienced managers and long-time industry players. In many booths, it was clear that the process of handing over responsibilities to the second and third generations is underway. Although this transition may not yet be complete or comprehensive, it shows that Iranian polymer companies are gradually moving toward internal knowledge transfer and experience-sharing—something essential for the survival of the industry in the years to come.
This year’s exhibition was noticeably different in terms of visitor numbers. The halls seemed less crowded compared to previous editions. On the other hand, the conversations were more purposeful, and most visitors came with clear agendas for negotiations and evaluations. This can be interpreted as a shift toward quality over quantity in business interactions.
The limited presence of international companies and visitors was hard to ignore. This year, Chinese participants were the most prominent foreign presence, while companies and representatives from Europe and other parts of the world were virtually absent. This, above all, can be attributed to the country’s political and social circumstances. Still, even this limited participation remains a hopeful sign of maintaining international connections for Iran’s polymer industry.
One of the highlights this year was the organization of B2B meetings with delegations and companies from Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Oman, and others. The strong reception of these sessions demonstrated that IranPlast can play an active and central role in regional markets. These meetings not only allowed Iranian producers to showcase their products but also created opportunities for real partnerships and targeted export planning. This segment, more than anything else, revealed the exhibition’s strategic function.
Another commendable feature of the 19th edition was the educational workshops, held in three halls alongside the exhibition. Some sessions were crowded, others less so, but the initiative itself was timely and valuable. These workshops highlighted that training, alongside technical expertise, is a genuine need for Iran’s polymer industry. The participation of students, researchers, and industry professionals created a fresh atmosphere for dialogue and learning—though attendance was somewhat affected by the postponement of university exams due to the 12-day war and their overlap with the exhibition dates in September.
This year, specialized associations also dedicated parts of the halls to social responsibility initiatives. This shows that Iran’s polymer industry is not solely focused on production and sales but is also striving to acknowledge its role and responsibility toward society.
Why Does IranPlast Matter?
The fact is, despite all the criticisms, having IranPlast is better than not having it at all. In today’s complex economic conditions and under sanctions, bringing together upstream suppliers, downstream producers, and final product providers under one roof is in itself a remarkable achievement.
Nineteen consecutive editions of this exhibition mean continuity, and continuity means Iran’s polymer industry is still alive and dynamic.
Final Word
The 19th IranPlast was a picture of contrasts and hopes: emptier halls but higher quality interactions, the absence of many international players alongside the presence of the younger generation, political challenges counterbalanced by educational innovations. Perhaps the most important message is that this exhibition reminds us each year that Iran’s polymer industry still wants to stand, grow, and build a different future.
