Gaia Biomaterials, RA International enter compostable plastic alternative distribution agreement

Gaia Biomaterials, Helsingborg, Sweden, and Dubai-based RA International have entered into an agreement for the distribution of Gaia’s compostable plastic alternative, Biodolomer, in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The agreement, which took effect Sept. 1, covers all GCC countries with an initial focus on the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Biodolomer is a patented limestone-based material that can be used in plastic conversion technologies for soft and rigid applications. It is certified compostable in the U.S. and EU and does not contain added chemicals or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—it also does not generate microplastics.

“When we learned about Gaia’s Biodolomer, it was clear that it would be perfect for the region,” says Soraya Narfeldt, founder and CEO of RA International. “As there is little recycling infrastructure in place, a compostable material makes a lot of sense. Over the past six months, we have spoken to many stakeholders in the field, and the interest is very strong.”

The GCC countries consume significant amounts of packaging materials and single-use plastics, Gaia says. UAE has committed to zero waste to landfill by 2030, and Saudi Arabia has a target of 100 percent diversion under its Vision 2030 plan.

“Entering the GCC region is very exciting,” says Peter Stenström, CEO of Gaia Biomaterials. “We have received many inquiries over the past years, but RA International has conducted research in a way that is unique. They also demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability and have deep knowledge of the region.”

The agreement will lead to the establishment of a dedicated business unit, according to Gaia.

“Through our work in remote locations, we have gained many years of experience in waste management,” Narfeldt says. “We understand the complexities and the need for new solutions, and with Gaia and Biodolomer, we found exactly that. With our base in Dubai, we are also ideally located from a logistics perspective.”

Gaia says first customer deliveries are expected in the first quarter of 2026.