The PLASFED delegation visited the facilities of SOCAR Turkey in Aliağa to evaluate the contributions of energy and petrochemical investments to the industry. During the meetings, opportunities for collaboration on reducing raw material dependence, sustainability, and circular economy came to the forefront.
The delegation, led by PLASFED Board Chairman Ömer Karadeniz, visited SOCAR Turkey's facilities in Izmir Aliağa on October 3, 2025. At the meeting hosted by SOCAR Turkey CEO Elchin Ibadov, the contributions of investments in the energy and petrochemical sectors to Turkey's industry, collaboration opportunities, and the future of the sector were discussed.
Among SOCAR's investments in Aliağa are Petkim and the STAR Refinery, which play a critical role in meeting the raw material needs of the Turkish plastic industry. Additionally, the natural gas flow provided through the TANAP line and energy production projects hold strategic importance not only for Turkey but also for Europe. The PLASFED delegation had the opportunity to closely examine the integrated structure of the facilities and shared a common vision for the development of the sector.
PLASFED President Ömer Karadeniz emphasized that the plastic sector is undergoing a technological transformation. Highlighting the integration of technology within the plastic sector, Karadeniz stated, “Collaboration with SOCAR is critically important. The investments carried out by SOCAR Turkey play a vital role for the Turkish industry. The vision presented is truly very valuable. The realization of these projects is of great importance not only for our sector but also for the Turkish industry.”
Karadeniz: “The STAR Refinery Has Closed a Major Gap in the Sector”
Reminding that PLASFED is the umbrella organization of the plastic sector, Karadeniz noted that they are the voice of producers with structures made up of nearly 1,750 industrialists. Stating that the Turkish plastic sector is now integrated with technology in many areas, from defense industry to automotive and even aviation, Karadeniz emphasized the importance of the investments in Aliağa.
Karadeniz explained that he has closely followed these facilities since the establishment of Aliağa, stating, “The STAR Refinery has closed a major gap in the sector. This investment, which reduces Petkim's raw material dependence, is a source of pride for us.”
Emphasizing the need for institutionalizing cooperation, Karadeniz called for, “Plastic and composite associations, the Istanbul Chamber of Industry, SOCAR, and us need to meet at the same table. By establishing joint commissions on circular economy and sustainability topics, we can develop a more dynamic collaboration.”
The discussions held during the visit brought to the agenda not only investments that will reduce the raw material dependence of the Turkish plastic industry but also cooperation opportunities in sustainability and circular economy. Both PLASFED and SOCAR agreed that future industry and energy policies should be shaped by common steps.
Translated by Artificial Intelligence
