Dangote Refinery has responded to allegations that its diesel exports to Europe fail to meet winter specifications due to high sulfur levels. The claims, reported by Argus Media and Oilprice.com, suggested that European buyers and importers have been shunning Dangote’s diesel as a result. According to the reports, a Nigerian source stated that Dangote Refinery is currently unable to supply winter diesel to colder regions in Europe.
The Dangote Group’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, has clarified that the 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery does not produce winter diesel, as it is not part of their product portfolio. Chiejina explained that winter diesel is not necessary for Nigeria, a tropical country, and therefore not a priority for the refinery.
In a previous statement, Devakumar Edwin, Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries, revealed that Dangote Refinery exports 90 percent of its jet fuel and diesel to Europe. However, the refinery’s current product offerings do not cater to the specific requirements of winter diesel.
The allegations had sparked concerns in the global energy sector, with many questioning the refinery’s ability to meet international standards. Dangote Refinery’s response aims to address these concerns, emphasizing that their products are tailored to meet the needs of their primary market.
As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, refineries like Dangote must adapt to changing demands and regulations. The incident highlights the importance of transparency and communication in the industry, ensuring that buyers and importers are aware of the specifications and capabilities of refineries like Dangote.
The development also underscores the need for refineries to diversify their product offerings to cater to various markets and regions. As Dangote Refinery continues to expand its operations, it may need to consider producing winter diesel or other specialized products to remain competitive in the global market. For now, the refinery remains focused on serving its core markets, while addressing concerns and allegations regarding its product specifications.