Aramco webinar engages U.S. non-metallic and composite manufacturers

Aramco Americas conducted a webinar on Aug. 18 to present business opportunities to non-metallic and composite manufacturers across the U.S. – in support of Saudi Aramco's non-metallic initiatives to promote sustainability.

This was the latest in a series of U.S.-Aramco business forums held in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce over the past few years, and the first one held virtually.

A top priority

“The company is moving toward a non-metallic future,” said Adel AlShahrani to participants. “This means that manufacturers, such as yourself, are a top priority for Aramco. We encourage you to explore the opportunities and join us.”

AlShahrani serves as manager of the Aramco Americas Procurement & Supply Chain Management (P&SCM) Department. He provided welcoming remarks along with Khush Choksy, senior vice president at the U.S. Chamber, who said the Chamber values its longtime partnership with Aramco and works to attract U.S. suppliers to business forums to learn about collaborative opportunities.

The value proposition

Speakers from both Saudi Aramco and Aramco Americas gave presentations on building win-win partnerships.

Saudi Aramco's Salem Alghamdi, with Sourcing & Business Development/Industrial Development & Strategic Supply Department (ID&SSD), presented the “Non-Metallic Investment Opportunity.” He highlighted Saudi Aramco's need for non-metallic and composite materials, such as glass fiber, structural products, chemicals, insulation and unidirectional tape.

Corrosive-resistant, durable and reliable – these materials are the building blocks for a more sustainable energy future.

Halah Musbeh, with King Salman Energy Park (SPARK), spoke about the industrial hub, which is operated by Saudi Aramco. She said the hub will offer tenet companies a supportive ecosystem with a world-class infrastructure and services to match. Non-metallic manufacturers will be located in a customized section of the park, with access to raw materials and huge market demand across the MENA region for non-metallic products.

Majid Almohammed, with IKTVA Action Plan & Support/ID&SSD, presented the “In-Kingdom Total Value Add” program, its localization goals, and the lucrative opportunities available for companies to partner with Aramco and further invest in the Kingdom – particularly in the key sectors of non-metallic, construction, oil & gas, and offshore.

From Aramco Americas P&SCM, Myra Bozeman with Supplier Relations highlighted the process for companies to register their business with Aramco and become a qualified provider. Sameer Yousef with Strategic Sourcing facilitated the webinar along with Liz Clark from the U.S. Chamber.

Attendees were encouraged to download and access an “Expression of Interest” form posted on the Aramco Americas website. The Aramco team is already engaged with a number of non-metallic and composite manufacturers interested in the opportunities.