Dangote’s Polypropylene Hailed as Industry Game Changer at PROPAK West Africa 2025

A Landmark Moment for Nigeria’s Manufacturing Sector

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals stole the spotlight at the 12th edition of PROPAK West Africa 2025, with its polypropylene products celebrated as a breakthrough for Nigeria’s manufacturing and packaging industries.

The event, which is the region’s premier exhibition for packaging, plastics, printing, and processing, became a platform to showcase how Dangote is reshaping the sector. The locally produced polypropylene signals the end of Nigeria’s heavy dependence on imported alternatives, which previously accounted for almost 90% of national demand.

Reliable Supply for Local Manufacturers

Local plastic manufacturers, distributors, and industrial users now have access to a consistent, high-quality alternative to imports. This shift is expected to cut costs, improve efficiency, and encourage more manufacturers to invest in domestic production.

Dr Segun Alabi, Assistant Director, Corporate Affairs and Communications at the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), emphasised the association’s enthusiasm for the new product.

“Polypropylene is a vital raw material for many of our members, and the introduction of locally produced supply will ease the pressure on importers,” he said. “Dangote is producing in surplus, meaning demand can now be met both locally and internationally. We are ready to work with Dangote to accelerate adoption across Nigeria and even create export opportunities that will boost foreign exchange.”

Industry Leaders Endorse Dangote’s Innovation

Event organisers also acknowledged the importance of Dangote’s participation at PROPAK 2025. George Pearson, Regional Director for West Africa at Montgomery Group Afrocet, praised the company’s role as both a key exhibitor and sponsor.

“Dangote’s presence elevates the prestige of PROPAK. They are not just a major buyer of international machinery, but also a supplier who can transform the entire packaging value chain,” Pearson said. “This refinery milestone will reduce imports, strengthen the naira, and boost local manufacturing capabilities.”

Global Attention and Collaboration

The impact of Dangote’s polypropylene production is already drawing international interest. Mr Shridhar Krishnamurthy, General Manager, Export Operations (Nigeria) at Vinmar International LLC, described the development as transformational.

“What Dangote has introduced is nothing short of a game changer. The new polypropylene product is attracting global attention, and many plastic producers are eager to engage and collaborate,” he noted. “It is refreshing to finally have a reliable, world-class supplier within Africa.”

Driving Industrial Growth and Economic Resilience

With its surplus production capacity, Dangote is positioned to serve both domestic and export markets. This development is expected to create jobs, strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base, and support the federal government’s agenda for self-sufficiency in petrochemicals.

Industry players see this as a turning point that could shift Nigeria from being a major importer to becoming a regional exporter of polypropylene, further stabilising the economy and strengthening its industrial output.