Under the new agreement, GPCA and IRU will work together to strengthen safety, efficiency and sustainability in the cross-border transport of dangerous goods
Dubai, UAE – 29 April 2026: The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the voice of the chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf, is proud to announce it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IRU, the world road transport organization, to advance safer dangerous goods transport.
Under the newly signed agreement, GPCA and IRU will work together to strengthen safety, efficiency and sustainability in the cross-border transport of dangerous goods, including chemical and petrochemical products.
The MoU sets out several priority areas for cooperation, including knowledge sharing, training and capacity building for stakeholders involved in dangerous goods transport.
In addition, it aims to enhance the sustainability of dangerous goods transport through fuel efficiency, eco-driving and other carbon neutrality best practices. It also seeks to improve cross-border procedures with proven transport facilitation tools and digitalization measures.
Mater Aldhafeeri, Secretary General, GPCA, commented: “Building on our longstanding commitment to the safe and sustainable transport of dangerous goods, we are proud to enter this agreement with IRU by combining GPCA’s regional expertise with their global knowledge. As a major global hub producing 165.1 million tons and exporting 75.8 million tons of chemicals annually, the GCC plays a pivotal role supplying essential products to the world.”
He added: “While their safe and efficient movement remains a top priority for our members, our decision to enter this agreement stands as a testament to the industry’s enduring commitment to safeguarding both community wellbeing and the environment. This partnership will enable us to advance best practices and deepen the exchange of insights that advance capability building and the sustainable development of the chemical industry in the region.”
Umberto de Pretto, Secretary General, IRU, said: “The continuous improvement of safety in the transport of dangerous goods has been a long-standing priority for IRU. We are pleased to join forces with GPCA to promote internationally recognized safety, efficiency and sustainability best practices in the transport of chemical and petrochemical products central to the livelihoods of people and businesses around the world.”
Through this partnership, IRU and GPCA aim to promote higher standards of safety, efficiency and sustainability in dangerous goods transport worldwide, working closely with their members and partners across the globe.
Learn more: www.gpcachem.org
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About the Gulf Petrochemicals & Chemicals Association
The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) was established in 2006 to represent the downstream hydrocarbon industry in the Arabian Gulf. Today, the association voices the common interests of more than 250 member companies from the chemical and allied industries, accounting for over 95 percent of chemical output in the GCC. The industry makes up the second largest manufacturing sector in the region, producing over USD 80.1 billion worth of products every year.
GPCA supports the petrochemical and chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf through advocacy, networking and thought leadership initiatives aimed at helping member companies to connect, share and advance knowledge, contribute to international dialogue, and become prime influencers in shaping the future of the global petrochemicals industry.
Committed to providing a regional platform for stakeholders from around the world, GPCA manages six working committees – Plastics, Supply Chain, Agri-Nutrients (Fertilizers), International Trade, Research and Innovation, and Responsible Care – and organizes six world-class events each year. The association also publishes an annual report, regular newsletters and various other industry reports.
For more information, visit www.gpca.org.ae.
Contact:
Dima Horani
Tel: +971 (4) 451 0666 Ext. 333