Dangote Refinery Becomes Europe’s Biggest Jet Fuel Supplier
By NINI NDUONOFIT-AKOH
DANGOTE Petroleum Refinery has strengthened its position in the global energy market after emerging as Europe’s largest supplier of jet fuel for the second consecutive month.
The refinery displaced traditional suppliers, including the United States, and supplied about one-fifth of Europe’s total jet fuel imports in July.
According to the company, the achievement reflects the refinery’s growing influence in international fuel markets and highlights Nigeria’s rising role in global petroleum trade.
Market data compiled by global commodities intelligence firm Kpler showed that more than 400,000 metric tonnes of jet fuel from the Dangote Refinery entered Europe in July.
The volume represented about 20 per cent of Europe’s total jet fuel imports for the month.
The performance followed an even stronger showing in June when the refinery exported a record 466,000 tonnes to Europe and first overtook the United States as the continent’s leading external supplier.
Industry analysts said the refinery has demonstrated its ability to consistently meet Europe’s strict aviation fuel quality standards.
Europe imported about 2.06 million tonnes of jet fuel in July. Dangote supplied the largest single share, ahead of exporters from the United States and the Middle East.
Analysts also noted that the refinery is changing long-established fuel trade patterns across the Atlantic Basin.
They attributed the refinery’s growing market share to its strategic Atlantic location, modern facilities, large production capacity and efficient export operations.
Production has continued to increase. Jet fuel loadings at the Lekki export terminal reached a record 550,000 tonnes in June. Crude supply to the refinery also climbed to about 660,000 barrels per day.
The strong export performance comes as European buyers seek to diversify supply sources amid geopolitical uncertainties affecting global energy markets.
The refinery said it has also expanded exports of diesel, petrol and other refined petroleum products to Europe, Africa and other international markets.
The development further strengthens Nigeria’s position as an emerging exporter of refined petroleum products.
