The Dangote Refinery has achieved a significant milestone by exporting its jet fuel to major international destinations, including Heathrow Airport in London, as well as airports in Iceland and Tenerife. This development marks a pivotal moment for the $20 billion Nigerian refinery, which is rapidly expanding its global footprint.
According to a report by SP Global Commodity Insights, the refinery's aviation fuel primarily transits through the Lome transshipment hub off Togo before reaching its final destinations. The report highlights that "the Nigerian-made aviation fuel has reached prominent locations such as Heathrow Airport in the UK," showing the refinery's growing influence in the global energy market.
In addition to jet fuel, the Dangote Refinery exports substantial volumes of naphtha and gasoil. South Korea has emerged as the largest single importer, receiving 23,000 barrels per day of naphtha. Furthermore, significant quantities of gasoil are being shipped to Ghana and other West African nations.
Energy Intelligence estimates that Dangote's jet fuel now supplies at least two-thirds of Nigeria's market and nearly half of West Africa's overall consumption. This shift has led to a sharp decline in Nigeria's jet fuel imports, from 13,000 barrels per day in 2023 to just 5,000 barrels per day so far in 2024.
Foluso Sobanjo, Managing Director of Asharami Synergy, commented on the competitive pricing of Dangote's products, stating, "We’re already buying from Dangote [now]; it’s slightly cheaper or at least the same price as imports."
As the refinery gears up for full operational capacity next year, at least eight African countries are expected to import its products.
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