Dangote Refinery to Export First Gasoline Cargo to Asia

In a groundbreaking development for Nigeria’s energy sector, the Dangote Refinery is set to export its first-ever gasoline shipment to Asia. The 90,000-metric-ton cargo, processed at Africa’s largest refinery, will be dispatched on June 22, marking the refinery’s debut in non-West African markets.

Expanding Beyond Regional Markets

Since commencing operations last year with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the refinery initially confined gasoline exports to markets within West Africa. That policy shifts now with the expansion into Asia, signaling confidence in the refinery’s output stability and competence in international fuel trade.

Global Buyer Engagement

Trading giant Mercuria will oversee the shipment, handling logistics on behalf of the refinery. A spokesperson for the Dangote Refinery emphasized that sales are driven by market demand, stating, “We sell our products to those who are willing to give us the highest price. It’s the buyer’s right to take the products to any destination of their choice”.

Industry Reactions

Energy analysts affirm that this move strengthens the refinery’s position in the global motor fuel supply chain. A senior director at Horizon Engage, Clementine Wallop, highlighted the milestone as proof of the refinery “growing global importance as a gasoline supplier, and the company’s confidence that production is now stable enough to meet Nigeria’s domestic needs”.

Implications for Nigeria’s Oil Ambitions

The successful export to Asia could ignite further expansion in Nigeria’s energy diplomacy, helping reduce its reliance on crude oil sales through diversification. It also demonstrates the country’s drive toward self-sufficiency in refined products, potentially bolstering revenue streams and strengthening its economic position.