Prime Minister of Vietnam visits one of the World’s largest petrochemical complexes in Kuwait

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visits the Al-Zour refinery and petrochemical complex. Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac.

Al Zour is a strategic refining and petrochemical complex of Kuwait, regarded as one of the largest and most advanced oil refineries in the Middle East. It is the second-largest facility in the region and ranks among the world’s top 10 in refining capacity. The project began its preparatory phase in 2015, broke ground in 2017, and entered full commercial operation by late 2022.

With a total investment of approximately USD 27 billion and a designed capacity of 615,000 barrels per day, the complex contributes around 43.5% of Kuwait’s total domestic refining output. The Kuwait National Petroleum Company currently manages and operates the entire facility.

Vietnam is ready to provide oil and gas services and supply high-quality personnel for projects in Kuwait, expanding cooperation to new projects. Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac.

Covering about 16 square kilometers, Al Zour comprises major processing units, an artificial island capable of storing around 5.6 million barrels of products, and an integrated export terminal system. The complex is regarded as a symbol of Kuwait’s strategic orientation under the “Kuwait Vision 2035,” reflecting the country’s shift from crude oil extraction to comprehensive downstream development, value-added enhancement, and strict adherence to advanced environmental standards.

Kuwait is Vietnam’s largest trading and investment partner among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. In 2024, two-way trade reached USD 7.3 billion. Oil and gas cooperation remains a key pillar of bilateral relations, notably the Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical Project in Thanh Hoa Province, which has significantly contributed to Vietnam’s energy security, job creation, local socio-economic development, and provincial revenue. The project is currently undergoing restructuring to improve operational efficiency.

The Al-Zour refinery and petrochemical complex spans approximately 16 km² and includes multiple main processing units, an artificial island with a storage capacity of about 5.6 million barrels, and an export terminal system. Source: Metenders.

During this visit, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Kuwaiti leaders discussed and agreed on various measures to further strengthen energy cooperation - particularly in the oil and gas sector and to expand the operations of the Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical Project, based on the principle of “harmonized interests and shared risks.” Vietnam also expressed readiness to provide high-quality petroleum services and skilled personnel for projects in Kuwait, while expanding collaboration into new potential areas./.