Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris’ OCI posts $1.6 billion revenue in 2025

OCI Global, the nitrogen and chemicals producer controlled by Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris, delivered a solid operational performance in 2025, reporting total net revenue of $1.61 billion, underpinned by steady demand across its fertilizer and industrial product lines. 

The leading producer and distributor reported a notable 24% year-over-year revenue surge for fiscal year 2025. The group sold 3.3 million metric tonnes of products during the year, with 2.3 million tonnes from continuing operations and 1.0 million tonnes from discontinued segments, reflecting the ongoing transformation of its portfolio following a series of divestments.

Strategic overhaul reshapes OCI’s portfolio

The performance comes amid a sweeping strategic repositioning that has seen the company generate $11.9 billion in gross proceeds over the past three years. These proceeds, combined with operating cash flows, have supported roughly $7 billion in shareholder distributions since 2022, reinforcing OCI’s capital return strategy.

A key milestone in 2025 was the completion of the $2.05 billion sale of its global methanol business to Methanex Corporation, marking a decisive step in streamlining operations and sharpening focus on core nitrogen assets. OCI retained an equity stake in Methanex, preserving exposure to the methanol market while maintaining flexibility for future monetization.

Nitrogen segment anchors performance

OCI’s revenue base remains heavily driven by nitrogen products. Calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) and ammonia accounted for the largest shares, contributing 25.4% and 24.9% of total revenue, respectively. Other key contributors included melamine (7.7%), urea ammonium nitrate (8.3%), and diesel exhaust fluid (2.3%).

Despite stable operations, OCI faces mounting external pressures. Rising European gas prices, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and disruptions in global trade flows have increased production costs and added uncertainty to fertilizer markets. Still, higher product prices have partially offset cost pressures, while the company amid its ongoing governance changes, shareholders will vote on the proposed appointment of Robert Jan van de Kraats as executive director for a one-year term, while Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris is set to transition from executive chair to a non-executive role after the AGM.

Methanex stake sales unlock liquidity

OCI has simultaneously intensified efforts to streamline its balance sheet through partial disposals of its stake in Methanex Corporation. On April 9, OCI sold 2 million shares at $57.65 each, generating net proceeds of about $115.3 million and reducing its stake from 8.6% to 6%. Days later, on April 13, it offloaded another 2 million shares at $58.30 per share, raising an additional $116.6 million and cutting its holding further to 3.4%.

The transactions underscore OCI’s flexible capital allocation strategy, with management authorized to pursue further disposals or acquisitions depending on market conditions and Methanex’s performance. Beyond portfolio optimization, OCI is advancing its sustainability agenda through a partnership with Prefere Resins to commercialize MelaminebyOCI™ Novo, a low-carbon melamine produced using biogas.

OCI: Strategic flexibility amid transition

Under the visionary leadership of Nassef Sawiris, who holds a significant 49.07% stake equivalent to 104,003,478 shares in the group. This is currently worth €376.49 million ($442.37 million). OCI has transformed into a global powerhouse with an impressive annual production capacity of 17.2 million metric tons across four continents.

OCI said it continues to manage its remaining assets, liabilities, and liquidity in the ordinary course of business while reviewing long-term strategic options. Should the Orascom Construction transaction fail to materialize, alternatives could include a phased wind-down of operations or the pursuit of new strategic pathways. The company emphasized that all decisions will be guided by its obligation to maximize value for shareholders, as it navigates a period of structural transition and evolving market dynamics.