Chem. Saad Abou El Maaty, Secretary General of the Arab Fertilizer Association (AFA), concluded the 38th AFA International Technical Conference & Exhibition in the presence of Dr. Abdel Wahab Al Rowwad, Chairman of AFA, presenting the conference’s key strategic recommendations.

The 38th AFA International Technical Conference & Exhibition, hosted by Jordan Phosphate Mines Company (JPMC), concluded in Amman, Jordan, following three days of activities from 3 to 5 November 2026. Held under the theme “Beyond Production: The Fertilizer Industry Transformation Summit,” the conference brought together senior executives, industry experts, specialists, and representatives of leading Arab and international fertilizer companies.

Building on the technical discussions, knowledge exchange, and insights shared throughout the conference, the proceedings resulted in a set of strategic recommendations aimed at advancing technological development, strengthening operational efficiency, promoting sustainability, and enhancing the competitiveness of the fertilizer industry.

The conference’s 11 strategic recommendations are outlined below:

1. Establish a Joint Arab Center for Fertilizer Research and Technology

Establish a joint Arab center dedicated to fertilizer research and technology—not merely another institution added to existing organizations or a new title in the literature of Arab cooperation, but a genuine joint Arab scientific and industrial project.

2. Shift from Expanding Production Capacity to Maximizing Economic Added Value

Emphasize that the future of the Arab fertilizer industry should not be measured solely by production volumes, but by its ability to maximize economic returns from existing assets, increase product added value, improve profit margins, and strengthen competitiveness in global markets.

3. Launch an Arab Initiative for Technological Transformation and Plant Modernization

Encourage Arab fertilizer companies to adopt comprehensive programs for plant modernization, improve production asset efficiency, and implement advanced technologies in ammonia, urea, phosphate, nitrogen, and potash fertilizer processes.

Priority should be given to modernization projects that deliver measurable economic returns and reasonable payback periods.

4. Adopt an Arab Initiative for Energy Efficiency and Carbon Footprint Reduction

Establish clear targets for reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, expand the use of renewable energy, and improve steam and industrial utility efficiency.

The initiative should also explore opportunities for low-carbon ammonia and green hydrogen production, while preparing for international environmental regulations and requirements.

5. Maximize the Added Value of Arab Mineral Resources

Develop downstream industries associated with phosphate and potash rather than relying solely on exports of raw materials and primary products.

This includes expanding the production of specialty fertilizers, phosphoric acid, and other value-added products, while applying circular economy principles and improving the utilization of industrial by-products and waste.

6. Launch an Arab Program to Strengthen Plant Reliability and Process Safety

Encourage companies to enhance maintenance systems and critical asset management, implement international best practices in process safety, improve workforce competencies, and develop technical training and qualification programs.

The safety of employees and the sustainability of operations must remain non-negotiable responsibilities.

7. Establish an Arab Early Warning and Fertilizer Market Intelligence System

Assign AFA the responsibility of preparing periodic analytical reports on Arab and global fertilizer markets, covering:

* Supply, demand, and price developments.

* Natural gas, energy, and raw material costs.

* International trade flows, exports, and imports.

* The impact of geopolitical developments, supply chain disruptions, and challenges affecting maritime routes.

* Environmental and trade regulations and their implications for the competitiveness of Arab fertilizer exports.

A comprehensive analytical report should be issued monthly, in addition to daily and weekly analyses, with urgent updates whenever significant market developments occur.

8. Strengthen Industrial and Investment Integration Among Arab Fertilizer Companies

Promote partnerships and joint ventures among Arab companies, facilitate the exchange of expertise and technologies, and maximize the comparative advantages of individual countries.

Efforts should focus on developing integrated projects across mining, production, manufacturing, marketing, and logistics.

9. Invest in Human Capital and Develop Technical and Leadership Capabilities

Launch a sustainable Arab program to develop technical professionals and emerging industry leaders in modern technologies, artificial intelligence, energy management, sustainability, asset management, and process safety.

The program should also expand cooperation among fertilizer companies, scientific research centers, universities, and technology providers.

10. Translate Conference Outcomes into Actionable Projects

Assign the AFA General Secretariat, technical committees, and working groups the responsibility of developing an implementation plan for the recommendations.

The plan should define clear responsibilities, implementation timelines, and key performance indicators to measure progress and results.

A follow-up report should be submitted to the AFA Board of Directors within six months.

11. Develop and Adopt an Integrated AFA Strategy Through 2035

Prepare and adopt a comprehensive strategy for the Arab Fertilizer Association through 2035, aimed at strengthening its regional and international role, developing its services and operating mechanisms, and supporting the competitiveness and sustainable growth of the Arab fertilizer industry amid ongoing global developments.

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