- Belgium tightens controls to stop exporting low-quality motor fuels to West Africa.
- New regulations target Antwerp-based oil companies exporting gasoline with high sulfur levels.
- Shift expected in fuel sourcing from Belgium to regions with cheaper alternatives like the Mediterranean and the UK.
Belgium has tightened controls to halt the export of low-quality motor fuels to West Africa, redirecting trade flows. Zakia Khattabi, Belgium’s Environment Minister, confirmed the ban on fuels with high sulfur or benzene levels, which Europe has banned for health reasons.
The law targets oil companies based in Antwerp that export gasoline with sulfur levels as high as 1,500 ppm, far exceeding Europe’s ten ppm standard. This follows similar measures implemented by the Netherlands last year, making Antwerp a hub for exporting low-quality gasoline to West Africa.
Minister Khattabi highlighted health risks from “dirty fuels” that Belgium exports to Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon. These fuels cause poor air quality and health issues.
Traders foresee shifts in sourcing away from Belgium to regions with cheaper alternatives. Antwerp’s storage operators report that West African buyers are less interested and expect lower storage premiums.
Stakeholders are exploring new supply options, such as blends from Mediterranean and UK regions, with less strict export rules. Analysts suggest that Russian gasoline exports and Nigeria’s Dangote refinery could meet West Africa’s fuel needs.
Once fully operational, Dangote’s refinery aims to reduce regional gasoline imports, though initial supplies are due later. This reflects changing gasoline dynamics in West Africa, shaped by European rules and expansions in local refineries.