A Milestone in UAE’s Industrial Growth
Al Gharbia Pipe Company (AGPC), a leading Abu Dhabi-based producer of longitudinally submerged arc welded (LSAW) steel pipes, has been officially recognised by the UAE’s Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) as an Industry 4.0 Digital Leader. This recognition highlights the company’s leadership in digital transformation and its contribution to the UAE’s rapidly growing industrial sector.
The certification reflects AGPC’s dedication to continuous improvement, innovation, and commitment to the highest manufacturing standards. It places the company among the top digital manufacturing leaders in the Middle East and reinforces its reputation as a key player in the region’s industrial ecosystem.
Driving the Future of Smart Manufacturing
According to Noritsugu Mifune, CEO of Al Gharbia Pipe Company, this milestone represents a defining moment for the organisation. He emphasized that the certification reflects the company’s technological advancement and its continuous pursuit of excellence. Mifune credited the achievement to the teamwork, innovation, and dedication of every AGPC employee. He added that the company will continue contributing to the UAE’s industrialisation efforts as the most technologically advanced LSAW pipe manufacturer in the region.
The Industry 4.0 Digital Leader certification is awarded by MoIAT to companies that demonstrate high levels of digital maturity and leadership in implementing Industry 4.0 technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automation. It recognises organisations that have effectively integrated digital tools to enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness in the global market.
Supporting the UAE’s National Industrial Vision
AGPC’s recognition aligns with the UAE’s National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, known as Operation 300 Billion. This ambitious initiative aims to increase the contribution of the industrial sector to the national GDP to AED 300 billion by 2031. The program seeks to transform the UAE into a global hub for innovation, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable growth.
As part of the certification process, AGPC underwent an Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI) assessment. The ITTI helps companies assess their technological maturity and readiness for Industry 4.0 adoption. It also guides them in improving competitiveness through digital innovation, sustainable practices, and efficient resource management.
Smart Manufacturing Execution System (MES 4.0)
A significant factor behind AGPC’s recognition was its advanced smart Manufacturing Execution System (MES) 4.0. This system connects every stage of the manufacturing process, enabling real-time monitoring, tracking, and reporting of operations across the factory floor. MES 4.0 acts as the digital core of the facility, seamlessly integrating production and testing processes and adapting to real-time data from the shop floor.
This smart system enhances accuracy, reduces downtime, and optimises production scheduling, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. It also helps maintain product consistency by enabling instant adjustments to production parameters when required.
In addition to MES 4.0, AGPC operates an ISO/IEC 17025-certified testing laboratory that guarantees quality at every step of the manufacturing process. Each pipe undergoes multiple stages of testing to ensure compliance with international standards and customer specifications. This end-to-end quality assurance strengthens AGPC’s reputation for reliability and excellence.
Embracing Sustainability and Efficiency
AGPC has also been recognised for its ongoing efforts toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company has implemented initiatives to reduce emissions, reuse water, and improve energy efficiency. These steps reflect its commitment to responsible manufacturing and align with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable industrial future.
By leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies, AGPC has been able to automate its data collection, enhance energy management, and streamline resource use. These innovations not only improve operational efficiency but also contribute to reducing the company’s carbon footprint.
Leadership in Innovation and Transformation
The company’s digital transformation journey was led by Ramesh Chandra Pathak, General Manager – Operations & Innovations, along with the Innovation Team. Their leadership was instrumental in successfully guiding AGPC through the ITTI assessment and achieving certification on September 20, 2025.
Under their guidance, AGPC has developed a strong technological roadmap that focuses on automation, data analytics, and advanced process control. Their collective efforts have transformed AGPC into a model of innovation and efficiency in the steel pipe manufacturing industry.
Expanding Manufacturing Capabilities
Since beginning operations in 2019, Al Gharbia Pipe Company has steadily expanded its production capacity and technological infrastructure. Today, its state-of-the-art facility can produce up to 360,000 metric tons of steel pipes annually, equivalent to approximately 760 kilometers of pipeline.
The company uses computer vision technology to detect micro-defects that traditional inspection methods might miss. This system, powered by machine learning, continuously improves its detection capabilities, ensuring every product meets the highest safety and durability standards. This use of AI-driven quality control highlights AGPC’s commitment to precision and innovation in manufacturing.
AGPC’s production capabilities cover carbon steel pipes up to API X80 grade, catering to sectors such as oil and gas, industrial, and renewable energy. Each pipe is engineered according to customer requirements and international standards, ensuring superior performance in demanding environments.
Recognised for Integrated Operations
AGPC was commended during its assessment for maintaining a fully integrated production process that links manufacturing execution, utilities, sourcing, and sales functions. This level of integration allows for better coordination, transparency, and data-driven decision-making across departments. It also supports real-time visibility into operations, enabling faster responses to market and production changes.
The company’s approach to integration demonstrates how digital tools can connect all aspects of industrial production to achieve higher productivity and greater efficiency. AGPC’s adoption of smart technologies is not just about automation but also about creating a connected ecosystem that supports innovation and continuous growth.
Commitment to Quality and Continuous Improvement
AGPC’s success as an Industry 4.0 Digital Leader is deeply rooted in its culture of continuous improvement. The company consistently invests in technology, training, and innovation to strengthen its position as a trusted manufacturing partner. Its adherence to international standards and certifications, including ISO and API, reflects its dedication to quality and safety.
Moving forward, AGPC plans to expand its digital capabilities even further by exploring predictive analytics, smart maintenance, and AI-based decision-making. These advancements will help enhance production reliability, reduce operational costs, and maintain the company’s leadership in the evolving industrial landscape.
Pioneering the Future of UAE Industry
Al Gharbia Pipe Company’s achievement extends beyond its factory walls. It represents a major step in the UAE’s journey toward becoming a digitally empowered industrial powerhouse. By adopting smart technologies, the company not only enhances its own competitiveness but also contributes to the UAE’s long-term economic diversification goals.
AGPC’s story is one of innovation, teamwork, and visionary leadership. It demonstrates how a commitment to technology and sustainability can drive success in the modern manufacturing era. As the UAE continues to embrace Industry 4.0, Al Gharbia Pipe Company stands as a prime example of how local industries can lead the way in digital transformation and smart manufacturing excellence.
Through this recognition, AGPC reinforces its position as a symbol of innovation, efficiency, and industrial advancement in the Middle East, paving the way for a smarter, more connected, and sustainable future for UAE’s manufacturing sector.
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