Nigeria’s Dangote refinery is set to export a gasoline cargo to Asia for the first time, marking a strategic shift in the facility’s export destinations. A source familiar with the matter revealed that energy trading firm Mercuria is scheduled to load approximately 90,000 metric tons of gasoline on June 22.
Since the refinery began exporting gasoline last year, shipments have primarily been directed to markets within West Africa. This upcoming export signals a growing international reach for the Lagos-based facility.
“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,” a spokesperson for the Dangote refinery stated, underscoring the company’s commitment to competitive global trade.
Dangote refinery
Commissioned in January 2024, the $20 billion refinery—owned by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote—has a processing capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, making it the largest in Africa. The plant produces a range of petroleum products including naphtha and jet fuel.
Despite operational challenges during its ramp-up phase, the refinery is expected to play a critical role in reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel and enhancing the country’s position in the international energy market. The upcoming export to Asia highlights the facility’s evolving commercial footprint beyond regional borders.