The African Energy Chamber (AEC) strongly opposes the proposed Treaty on Plastics, which aims to address plastic pollution.

The treaty would reduce single-use plastic production levels and cause significant economic damage to hydrocarbon-producing countries, particularly those in Africa.

The petrochemical industry in Africa would be severely impacted, leading to increased energy poverty, hindered manufacturing, stalled industrialisation, and a decline in investments for the chemicals sector.

"The AEC calls on African nations, specifically Gabon, Ghana, Angola, and Senegal, to reject support for this treaty. We urge these countries to prioritise their energy and industrial needs over external environmental agendas that do not align with Africa’s developmental priorities. Supporting this treaty would amount to shooting yourselves in the foot, making no sense for Africa’s future," stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

African countries like Gabon, Ghana, Angola, and Senegal, which have significant deposits of oil and gas resources, could potentially turn Africa’s economy around through petrochemical production.

However, the Treaty on Plastics would disrupt this growth, impacting Gabon’s efforts to strengthen its economy.