Dangote Refinery Prepares for First Gasoline Export Beyond Africa

The Dangote oil refinery in Nigeria, Africa’s largest crude processing facility, is preparing to ship its first gasoline cargo outside the continent, with a vessel bound for Asia, a source familiar with the plans told Reuters on Wednesday.

The 90,000-metric-ton cargo will be loaded by independent trader Mercuria this weekend, according to the source. Until now, the refinery – launched last year – has exported only to West Africa.

“We sell our products to those offering the highest price. It’s up to the buyer where they choose to take the product,” a Dangote spokesperson said.

The 650,000-barrels-per-day refinery has recently increased its purchases of U.S. WTI crude, due to both logistical and technical advantages. WTI delivers higher reformate yields and better gasoline blending properties, according to Randy Hurburun, senior analyst at Energy Aspects.

Fuel production began in January 2024, starting with diesel and naphtha, followed by gasoline in September. Funded by Africa’s richest person, Aliko Dangote, the facility is one of the world’s largest refineries and aims to fully meet Nigeria’s demand for refined products – with surplus volumes available for export.

Additionally, Dangote will export polypropylene globally through an exclusive partnership with Vinmar International, expanding access to high-quality petrochemicals produced at its Lekki complex.