The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), which represents the chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf, has urged global governments and  international legislators to work closely together to ensure the uninterrupted supply of raw materials used for the manufacture of medical and hygiene equipment crucial to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite facing significant supply chain disruptions, the GPCA said chemical companies belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have stepped up their own efforts to safeguard the supply of critical raw materials. However, they are being hindered by trade tariffs imposed prior to the start of the crisis.

Growing global protectionism since mid-2018, combined with border closures in some countries, are making it difficult for chemical raw materials to reach production plants across the world where finished products are made, the GPCA said.

Against the backdrop of heightened global demand, Gulf chemical producers are calling for the reduction of tariffs and removal of trade barriers and all bureaucratic hurdles that pose as a significant challenge to the steady supply of chemical and petrochemical products used for the manufacture of specialized equipment and everyday products.

 In addition to hygiene products and medicines for testing and treatment of patients affected by the virus, important products include alongside personal protective equipment for medical staff as well as essential food packaging material, GPCA said.