AFPM’s IPC is the latest chemical conference cancelled due to coronavirus

HOUSTON (ICIS)–The International Petrochemical Conference (IPC), which had been planned this year for 29-31 March in New Orleans, Louisiana, has been cancelled because of coronavirus (Covid-19) concerns, host American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) announced on Wednesday.

AFPM’s IPC conference is attended by delegates from all over the world.

The conference usually includes sessions covering political, economic and environmental issues related to the petrochemical industry. The speakers are recognised experts in the petrochemical business as well as economists.

“It is clear to us that cancelling this meeting is the right course of action to protect the health and safety of our meeting registrants and vendors, our staff, and the New Orleans community,” said Chet Thompson, president and CEO of AFPM. “We are currently looking for ways to bring this important content to you in different formats and will update you as our plans are solidified.”

AFPM’s annual meeting slated to take place 22-24 March in Austin, Texas, has also been cancelled.

AFPM’s website has information regarding cancellations and refunds.

Earlier, CERAWeek by IHS Markit scheduled for 9-13 March in Houston was cancelled due to the coronavirus.

Also cancelled is the 155th European Petrochemical Luncheon, scheduled later this week in Madrid, Spain, because of concerns about the disease.

China’s biggest plastics and rubber fair ChinaPlas has been pushed back for later in the year. ICIS has moved the date of its Asian Recycling & Sustainability Conference to 19 June.

Al Greenwood also contributed to this story.