Not only is it poised to defy the current economic situation of the chemical industry in other regions, but its growth will have far reaching implications for local and international players in the coming years. Market participants need to understand clearly the opportunities and challenges in order to make the right decisions with respect to this region. The conference "The Chemical Industry in the Middle East in 2020" - organized by the Association for Chemistry and Economy (VCW) and the German Chemical Society (GDCh) and hosted by Evonik Industries - brought together speakers from a range of chemical, engineering and investment companies. The theme was explored in depth by looking at establishing partnerships or joint ventures and the unique problems, challenges and rewards they bring. Read the full article by Sarah Millar, Wiley-VCH, ChemistryViews.