SS Royal Kit Emirates Investment and Global Biopolymers Industries have partnered to establish Emirates Biotech, a new company focused on the production and distribution of PLA bioplastics. The firm aims to introduce sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel-based plastics across the Middle East, Africa, and India.
The partnership agreement was signed by Shaikh Suhail Ali Saeed Rashed Al-Maktoum and Dr. Shadi Jabari from SS Royal Kit Emirates Investment, and Mr. Theodorus Everwijn from Global Biopolymers Industries. Emirates Biotech, which was previously known as Gulf Biopolymers Industries, will operate from its headquarters in Dubai. The company plans to construct a PLA production facility in the UAE.
Shaikh Suhail Al-Maktoum remarked, “Our involvement with Emirates Biotech highlights our dedication to promoting sustainability in the UAE and beyond. Investing in PLA bioplastics supports the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 and our commitment to a more eco-friendly future.”
Theodorus Everwijn added, “PLA biopolymers are crucial for reducing carbon footprints and tackling global plastic pollution. Our collaboration with SS Royal Kit Emirates Investment will help expedite this transition and strengthen the UAE’s role in advancing sustainability.”
Marc Verbruggen has been appointed as CEO of Emirates Biotech. With over a decade of experience in the PLA bioplastics sector, Verbruggen emphasized the urgency of adopting bioplastics to mitigate environmental impacts, stating, “Transitioning to bioplastics is essential for reducing plastic waste in landfills and oceans.”
Emirates Biotech plans to commence commercial operations in early 2025 and aims to begin constructing its PLA production plant in the UAE before 2026.