Key Insights
The Middle East and Africa Plastic Packaging Films market is poised for substantial expansion, driven by robust demand from the food & beverage, consumer goods, and pharmaceutical sectors. Projections indicate a market size of 635.2 million by 2025, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.4 from the base year 2025. This growth is underpinned by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a growing preference for convenient, packaged products. Flexible packaging solutions, valued for their cost-effectiveness and ability to extend product shelf life, are key growth drivers. The market is increasingly focused on sustainable and recyclable materials, prompting innovation in biodegradable and compostable film technologies. Advancements in barrier properties and printing capabilities further enhance the appeal of plastic films.

Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Market Size (In Million)

Challenges, including fluctuating raw material prices and stringent environmental regulations, are being addressed through strategic innovation and investment in eco-friendly alternatives. The market is segmented by film type, application, and geography. Leading players are pursuing strategic partnerships, capacity expansions, and product diversification to maintain market leadership. Significant opportunities exist for businesses offering sustainable and innovative packaging solutions tailored to the unique demands of the Middle East and Africa regions. Ongoing infrastructural development and the rapid growth of e-commerce are further amplifying the demand for efficient and protective packaging. Companies are actively investing in advanced technologies to minimize environmental impact while optimizing product quality and shelf life, ensuring continued market expansion through the forecast period.

Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Company Market Share

Middle East & Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This detailed report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Middle East & Africa plastic packaging films market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study covers the period 2019-2033, with 2025 as the base year and a forecast period extending to 2033. The report leverages extensive primary and secondary research to deliver actionable intelligence on market size, growth drivers, challenges, opportunities, and competitive dynamics. Expect in-depth segmentation analysis, highlighting key trends and future prospects within this dynamic market.
Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Market Concentration & Innovation
This section analyzes the competitive landscape of the Middle East & Africa plastic packaging films market, encompassing market concentration, innovation drivers, regulatory frameworks, substitute products, end-user trends, and mergers & acquisitions (M&A) activities. The market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with a few major players holding significant market share. However, the presence of numerous regional players indicates a competitive environment.
- Market Share: Amcor Group GmbH and Berry Global Inc. are estimated to hold a combined xx% market share in 2025, while regional players such as Aalmir Plastic Industries and 3P Gulf Group contribute significantly to the remaining market share. Precise figures vary depending on segment and region.
- Innovation Drivers: Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions, coupled with advancements in film technology (e.g., bioplastics, recyclable films), are key innovation drivers. Stringent government regulations regarding plastic waste management further accelerate innovation.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Varying regulations across different Middle Eastern and African countries significantly impact market dynamics. The implementation of extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes and bans on specific plastic types are influencing packaging choices.
- Product Substitutes: Paper-based packaging and other biodegradable alternatives pose a competitive threat, yet plastic films retain advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and barrier properties for many applications.
- End-User Trends: The growing food and beverage industry and the expansion of e-commerce are bolstering demand for flexible plastic packaging films. Consumer preference shifts toward convenient and sustainable packaging options are shaping market trends.
- M&A Activities: While specific M&A deal values are confidential, the industry has witnessed several strategic acquisitions and partnerships over the past five years, aimed at expanding market reach, enhancing product portfolios, and integrating sustainable practices (e.g., Amcor’s MOU with NOVA Chemicals). The total estimated value of M&A deals in the past five years is approximately xx Million.
Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Industry Trends & Insights
The Middle East & Africa plastic packaging films market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several factors. The market is expected to register a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several key trends:
- Rising Disposable Incomes and Changing Consumer Lifestyles: Increased disposable income in several regions is driving demand for packaged goods, while shifting consumer preferences toward convenience and ready-to-eat foods are directly impacting packaging film consumption.
- Growth of the Food and Beverage Sector: The expanding food and beverage industry, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas, is a major driver, demanding flexible packaging for food preservation and transportation.
- E-Commerce Boom: The rapid expansion of e-commerce across the region significantly increases demand for protective packaging films.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in packaging materials, such as the incorporation of recycled content and biodegradable alternatives, are transforming the industry.
- Competitive Landscape: The market is characterized by a mix of multinational corporations and local manufacturers, leading to intense competition.
- Market Penetration: While market penetration varies across different countries, significant growth is anticipated, particularly in underserved regions.
Dominant Markets & Segments in Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market
The Middle East and Africa plastic packaging films market shows varied growth across regions and segments. The specific dominant regions and segments are highly dependent on economic development, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks.
- Leading Regions: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are predicted to dominate the market due to their high levels of economic development and substantial food & beverage industries. Specific countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are anticipated to showcase the highest consumption.
- Key Segment Drivers:
- Economic Policies: Government initiatives promoting industrial growth and infrastructure development positively impact the market.
- Infrastructure: Well-established logistics and distribution networks support the efficient movement of packaged goods.
- Population Growth: Rapid population growth in several regions increases demand for packaged food and consumer goods.
The dominance analysis indicates a strong correlation between economic prosperity, urbanization, and the demand for efficient plastic packaging solutions.
Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Product Developments
Recent product developments focus on sustainability and enhanced performance. The market is witnessing a shift toward flexible films incorporating recycled materials and biodegradable polymers. Companies are also focusing on improving barrier properties, ensuring product freshness and extending shelf life. This enhances product appeal and creates competitive advantages. Technological trends include advancements in film extrusion and printing techniques, allowing for more customized and aesthetically pleasing packaging.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report segments the Middle East & Africa plastic packaging films market based on several factors:
By Material Type: This includes polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and other materials. Growth projections vary, with PE and PP dominating due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. Market sizes are estimated in Millions for each material type. Competitive dynamics vary by material; sustainable alternatives are gaining traction.
By Application: This covers food packaging, non-food packaging (e.g., industrial, hygiene), and other applications. The food packaging segment holds the largest market share, driven by the food and beverage industry's growth. Market sizes are estimated in Millions for each application. Competitive dynamics vary by application, with specialized film properties influencing market competition.
By Region: The report provides a detailed analysis of various Middle Eastern and African countries. Growth projections and market sizes (in Millions) are provided for each region. Competitive dynamics are affected by regional regulations and local manufacturing capacities.
Key Drivers of Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Growth
The Middle East & Africa plastic packaging films market's growth is driven by several interconnected factors:
- Expanding Food and Beverage Sector: The continuous growth of the food and beverage industry in the region is a primary driver.
- E-commerce Growth: The booming e-commerce sector necessitates increased demand for protective packaging.
- Government Support: Government initiatives fostering industrial development and infrastructure investments create a favorable market environment.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in film production techniques and materials improve efficiency and sustainability.
Challenges in the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Sector
Despite significant opportunities, the market faces several challenges:
- Fluctuating Raw Material Prices: Reliance on imported raw materials makes the industry susceptible to price volatility.
- Environmental Concerns: Growing concerns about plastic waste and pollution necessitate the adoption of sustainable practices, adding to costs and complexity.
- Stringent Regulations: Varying regulatory frameworks across countries pose compliance challenges.
Emerging Opportunities in Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market
Several opportunities exist for market expansion:
- Sustainable Packaging Solutions: Increased demand for eco-friendly, recyclable, and biodegradable films creates significant opportunities.
- Smart Packaging: The incorporation of advanced technologies, such as RFID and sensors, can enhance product traceability and improve consumer experience.
- Specialized Packaging: Customized packaging solutions for specific product requirements are gaining traction.
Leading Players in the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Market
- Amcor Group GmbH
- Berry Global Inc
- Aalmir Plastic Industries
- 3P Gulf Group
- ENPI Group (Flexpack City Pack)
- Amber Packaging Industries LLC
- Falcon Pack
- Arabian Plastic Industrial Company Limited (APICO)
- Takween Advanced Industries
- Emirates Printing Press (LLC)
- Radiant Packaging Industry LLC
- Interplast (Harwal Group of Companies)
- Integrated Plastics Packaging LLC
- Madayn Plastic Company
- Al Amoudi Plastic Factor
Key Developments in Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Industry
- November 2023: Amcor Group GmbH announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NOVA Chemicals Corporation for the purchase of mechanically recycled polyethylene resin (rPE), signifying a commitment to sustainable packaging.
- April 2024: SABIC, in collaboration with partners and Napco National, launched bread packaging made from recycled post-consumer plastic, showcasing a shift towards circular economy practices within the industry.
Strategic Outlook for Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Market
The Middle East & Africa plastic packaging films market is poised for continued growth, driven by sustained economic development, expanding consumer markets, and the increasing adoption of sustainable packaging solutions. Opportunities lie in catering to the evolving demands of the food and beverage sector, e-commerce growth, and the increasing focus on environmental responsibility. Strategic investments in innovative and eco-friendly technologies will be crucial for market success.
Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Polyprop
- 1.2. Polyethy
- 1.3. Polyethy
- 1.4. Polystyrene
- 1.5. Bio-Based
- 1.6. PVC, EVOH, PETG, and Other Film Types
-
2. End-User Industry
-
2.1. Food
- 2.1.1. Candy & Confectionery
- 2.1.2. Frozen Foods
- 2.1.3. Fresh Produce
- 2.1.4. Dairy Products
- 2.1.5. Dry Foods
- 2.1.6. Meat, Poultry, And Seafood
- 2.1.7. Pet Food
- 2.1.8. Other Fo
- 2.2. Healthcare
- 2.3. Personal Care & Home Care
- 2.4. Industrial Packaging
- 2.5. Other En
-
2.1. Food
Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Middle East
- 1.1. Saudi Arabia
- 1.2. United Arab Emirates
- 1.3. Israel
- 1.4. Qatar
- 1.5. Kuwait
- 1.6. Oman
- 1.7. Bahrain
- 1.8. Jordan
- 1.9. Lebanon

Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Regional Market Share

Geographic Coverage of Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market
Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 3.4% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Objective
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Market Snapshot
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Market Drivers
- 3.2. Market Restrains
- 3.3. Market Trends
- 3.4. Market Opportunities
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.1.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.1.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.1.3. Threat of New Entrants
- 4.1.4. Threat of Substitutes
- 4.1.5. Competitive Rivalry
- 4.2. PESTEL analysis
- 4.3. BCG Analysis
- 4.3.1. Stars (High Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.2. Cash Cows (Low Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.3. Question Mark (High Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.3.4. Dogs (Low Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.4. Ansoff Matrix Analysis
- 4.5. Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.6. Regulatory Landscape
- 4.7. Current Market Potential and Opportunity Assessment (TAM–SAM–SOM Framework)
- 4.8. RAX Analyst Note
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast 2021-2033
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Polyprop
- 5.1.2. Polyethy
- 5.1.3. Polyethy
- 5.1.4. Polystyrene
- 5.1.5. Bio-Based
- 5.1.6. PVC, EVOH, PETG, and Other Film Types
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 5.2.1. Food
- 5.2.1.1. Candy & Confectionery
- 5.2.1.2. Frozen Foods
- 5.2.1.3. Fresh Produce
- 5.2.1.4. Dairy Products
- 5.2.1.5. Dry Foods
- 5.2.1.6. Meat, Poultry, And Seafood
- 5.2.1.7. Pet Food
- 5.2.1.8. Other Fo
- 5.2.2. Healthcare
- 5.2.3. Personal Care & Home Care
- 5.2.4. Industrial Packaging
- 5.2.5. Other En
- 5.2.1. Food
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Middle East
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2021-2033
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Polyprop
- 6.1.2. Polyethy
- 6.1.3. Polyethy
- 6.1.4. Polystyrene
- 6.1.5. Bio-Based
- 6.1.6. PVC, EVOH, PETG, and Other Film Types
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 6.2.1. Food
- 6.2.1.1. Candy & Confectionery
- 6.2.1.2. Frozen Foods
- 6.2.1.3. Fresh Produce
- 6.2.1.4. Dairy Products
- 6.2.1.5. Dry Foods
- 6.2.1.6. Meat, Poultry, And Seafood
- 6.2.1.7. Pet Food
- 6.2.1.8. Other Fo
- 6.2.2. Healthcare
- 6.2.3. Personal Care & Home Care
- 6.2.4. Industrial Packaging
- 6.2.5. Other En
- 6.2.1. Food
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. Competitive Analysis
- 7.1. Company Profiles
- 7.1.1 Amcor Group GmbH
- 7.1.1.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.1.2. Products
- 7.1.1.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.1.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.2 Berry Global Inc
- 7.1.2.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.2.2. Products
- 7.1.2.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.2.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.3 Aalmir Plastic Industries
- 7.1.3.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.3.2. Products
- 7.1.3.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.3.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.4 3P Gulf Group
- 7.1.4.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.4.2. Products
- 7.1.4.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.4.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.5 ENPI Group (Flexpack City Pack)
- 7.1.5.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.5.2. Products
- 7.1.5.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.5.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.6 Amber Packaging Industries LLC
- 7.1.6.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.6.2. Products
- 7.1.6.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.6.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.7 Falcon Pack
- 7.1.7.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.7.2. Products
- 7.1.7.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.7.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.8 Arabian Plastic Industrial Company Limited (APICO)
- 7.1.8.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.8.2. Products
- 7.1.8.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.8.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.9 Takween Advanced Industries
- 7.1.9.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.9.2. Products
- 7.1.9.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.9.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.10 Emirates Printing Press (LLC)
- 7.1.10.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.10.2. Products
- 7.1.10.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.10.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.11 Radiant Packaging Industry LLC
- 7.1.11.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.11.2. Products
- 7.1.11.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.11.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.12 Interplast (Harwal Group of Companies)
- 7.1.12.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.12.2. Products
- 7.1.12.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.12.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.13 Integrated Plastics Packaging LLC
- 7.1.13.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.13.2. Products
- 7.1.13.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.13.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.14 Madayn Plastic Company
- 7.1.14.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.14.2. Products
- 7.1.14.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.14.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.15 Al Amoudi Plastic Factor
- 7.1.15.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.15.2. Products
- 7.1.15.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.15.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.1 Amcor Group GmbH
- 7.2. Market Entropy
- 7.2.1 Company's Key Areas Served
- 7.2.2 Recent Developments
- 7.3. Company Market Share Analysis 2025
- 7.3.1 Top 5 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 7.3.2 Top 3 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 7.4. List of Potential Customers
- 8. Research Methodology
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue Breakdown (million, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue million Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: Saudi Arabia Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: United Arab Emirates Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: Israel Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: Qatar Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: Kuwait Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: Oman Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: Bahrain Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: Jordan Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: Lebanon Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 3.4%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market?
Key companies in the market include Amcor Group GmbH, Berry Global Inc, Aalmir Plastic Industries, 3P Gulf Group, ENPI Group (Flexpack City Pack), Amber Packaging Industries LLC, Falcon Pack, Arabian Plastic Industrial Company Limited (APICO), Takween Advanced Industries, Emirates Printing Press (LLC), Radiant Packaging Industry LLC, Interplast (Harwal Group of Companies), Integrated Plastics Packaging LLC, Madayn Plastic Company, Al Amoudi Plastic Factor.
3. What are the main segments of the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market?
The market segments include Type, End-User Industry.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 635.2 million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Rapid Growth of HoReCa and Food Industry in Middle Eastern Nations; MEA's Healthcare Emphasis Drives Demand for Medical-Grade Plastic Films.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Polyethylene (PE) is Expected to Witness Significant Growth.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Rapid Growth of HoReCa and Food Industry in Middle Eastern Nations; MEA's Healthcare Emphasis Drives Demand for Medical-Grade Plastic Films.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
April 2024: SABIC, in collaboration with its partners, introduced bread packaging crafted from recycled post-consumer plastic. FONTE launched bread bags for its Oat Arabic Bread, fashioned from SABIC's certified circular polyethylene (PE). These bags are manufactured by Napco National, a Saudi-based manufacturer specializing in flexible film and packaging.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Middle East And Africa Plastic Packaging Films Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence


