The exhibition Oman Plast 2016 was inaugurated by Hilal bin Hamad al Hasani chief executive officer of Public Establishment for Industrial Estates on Tuesday.

The three-day event which is showcasing the latest technology and machineries used in manufacturing of plastics rubber packaging and petrochemicals is an ideal platform for Oman and neighbouring countries.

Since the petrochemical industry is one of the main components of Omani economy the event will give great impetus to further diversify its growth.

P D Nath managing director Silver Star one of the leading organisers of large scale exhibitions and event management company in Oman said 'The third Oman Plast 2016 is perfectly timed because of the continuing boom in Oman's plastics rubber packaging and petrochemical industry. This event will offer a perfect gateway to reach this highly potential market and provide excellent business opportunities and new collaborations.'

The countries participating in the exhibition other than Oman include China Germany India Jordan Korea Lebanon Malaysia Qatar and UAE. The Middle East is the largest source of plastic raw materials and up to 16 per cent of the region's abundant petroleum supply that is not used for energy production is converted into other materials such as plastic products. The exhibition is open from 10am to 6pm and is exclusively for traders and businessmen.