Sohar Port has attracted a $550 million investment for a purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) production complex, following German chemical company MAK Germany’s decision to relocate its Rotterdam operations to Oman.
The move is part of Sohar Port’s strategy to position itself as a hub for industrial and chemical investments in the region, leveraging its strategic location, deep-water facilities, and integrated logistics infrastructure. The new facility is expected to strengthen Oman’s downstream petrochemical capabilities and boost exports of PTA and PET products to global markets.
Officials said the project will create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, support local supply chains, and encourage further foreign direct investment in the Sultanate’s industrial sector. Sohar Port’s management highlighted that the relocation aligns with Oman’s economic diversification goals under Vision 2040, promoting high-value manufacturing and industrial exports.
MAK Germany’s move from Rotterdam to Sohar is also seen as a strategic decision to reduce operating costs, improve access to feedstock, and serve Middle East, African and Asian markets more efficiently. The company plans to leverage Sohar’s port connectivity and industrial ecosystem to optimize production and distribution.
Industry analysts said the investment underscores Sohar Port’s growing appeal as a global chemical and petrochemical hub, demonstrating the region’s ability to attract large-scale industrial projects from established European companies.
