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This preview is part of the LATAM Petrochemical Outlook 2026, based on discussions held at the LARTC Petrochemical Advisory Board in partnership with APLA. 

Bringing together senior leaders from across Latin America’s petrochemical value chain, the session explored the strategic challenges, investment priorities and operational realities shaping the future of the region’s downstream industry. 

In this preview, we explore how industry leaders are approaching AI and digital transformation, and why practical operational value is taking priority over technology hype. 

Moving beyond the AI conversation 

Artificial intelligence continues to dominate headlines, conference agendas and boardroom discussions across the industrial sector. Yet despite the excitement surrounding the technology, the Advisory Board discussion took a notably practical approach. 

Rather than focusing on AI as a future ambition, participants discussed where it is already delivering measurable improvements across refining and petrochemical operations. 

The conversation centred on one key question: where can AI solve real operational problems? 

For many participants, the answer lies in improving reliability, increasing efficiency and supporting better operational decision-making—not simply adopting new technology for the sake of innovation. 

Practical applications are already emerging 

Several organisations shared examples of AI and machine learning being integrated into day-to-day operations. 

Predictive and prescriptive maintenance were highlighted as some of the most mature use cases, helping operators identify potential equipment issues before they lead to unplanned downtime. 

Participants also discussed how digital tools are being used to support process optimisation, improve production reliability and enhance quality consistency across manufacturing operations. 

In some facilities, AI is already assisting with reactor optimisation and helping operators make faster, more informed decisions using real-time operational data. 

Rather than replacing human expertise, these technologies are increasingly being viewed as tools that strengthen operational performance. 

Technology must solve a business problem 

Perhaps the clearest message to emerge from the discussion was that successful digital transformation begins with identifying operational priorities—not selecting technology. 

As one participant summarised: 

“The biggest value from AI comes from solving real operational problems—not deploying technology for its own sake.” 

That perspective was echoed throughout the session. 

Participants agreed that while interest in AI continues to grow, long-term success will depend on implementing technologies that deliver measurable improvements in efficiency, reliability and operational performance. 

Rather than chasing every new innovation, companies are increasingly focusing on digital investments that support clear business objectives and generate tangible returns. 

Digital transformation is becoming a competitive advantage 

As refining and petrochemical operations become more complex, the ability to make faster, data-driven decisions is becoming increasingly valuable. 

AI alone will not transform the industry, but when combined with operational expertise and clearly defined priorities, it has the potential to improve asset performance, strengthen reliability and support more efficient operations. 

For many organisations, digital transformation is no longer viewed as a standalone initiative—it is becoming an important component of long-term competitiveness. 

Continue reading… 

Digital transformation is just one of the themes explored in the LATAM Petrochemical Outlook 2026. 

The full report also examines competitiveness, feedstock strategy, refinery–petrochemical integration, investment priorities and the strategic trends shaping the future of Latin America’s downstream industry. 

Download the report to explore the complete findings from the Advisory Board. 

What’s next? 

These issues will be explored in greater depth at LARTC 2026, taking place 8–10 September 2026 in Buenos Aires, where refiners, petrochemical producers, technology providers and industry leaders will examine how digital innovation, operational excellence and strategic investment are shaping the future of Latin America’s downstream sector. 

Download the full LATAM Petrochemical Outlook 2026 to explore the complete findings from the Advisory Board, or continue the conversation in person at LARTC 2026.