The Southern Refineries Company in Basra, Iraq, has announced that its exports of white oil and civil aviation fuel meet the highest international specifications. Director General Hussam Wali confirmed the operation of a new refining unit with a capacity of 70,000 barrels per day, which is expected to enhance the refinery's output significantly [2840110b]. A recent contract has been signed for the export of 180,000 tons of civil aviation fuel (GTE One), with a daily export rate of 1,000 tons [2840110b]. This follows a previous contract for 52,000 tons of aviation fuel, indicating a robust demand for Iraqi refined products in the international market [2840110b].
In addition to aviation fuel, the Southern Refineries Company is also exporting kerosene, ensuring that local market needs are met before sending products abroad [2840110b]. The Iraqi government has set a goal to achieve self-sufficiency in gasoline by next year, which reflects a broader strategy to bolster domestic production and reduce reliance on imports [2840110b]. The first shipment of kerosene to Egypt, ranging from 800 to 1,000 tons, marks a significant step in expanding Iraq's export capabilities [2840110b]. All exports adhere to international measurement standards, reinforcing Iraq's commitment to quality in its oil products [2840110b].
Meanwhile, the Imperial Oil pipeline in southern Manitoba has been fully repaired and is operating at full capacity. The line was shut down earlier this year due to integrity concerns, but repairs have been completed, and the flow of fuel has been restored [df1dc3ff]. This restoration is crucial for maintaining stable gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel supplies in Manitoba, where retail prices remain the lowest in Canada [df1dc3ff].
In Libya, the Waha Oil Company has resumed crude oil pumping operations through the main crude oil transportation pipeline after extinguishing a fire that had temporarily halted operations [de148284]. The company has completed all necessary maintenance and is expected to return to normal production rates shortly [de148284].
On a broader scale, the U.S. Gulf Coast refineries processed 9.31 million barrels of crude oil daily last week, marking the highest output for this time of year since 1992. The U.S. is projected to export 2.96 million barrels of refined products daily this month, the highest level in over seven years [3453f3b2]. This surge in refining activity comes amid increasing demand, particularly as Brazil's diesel consumption has reached a 24-year high, driven by 12 consecutive quarters of economic growth [3453f3b2]. Profit margins for gasoline and diesel are also at their highest since August, reflecting a robust market environment [3453f3b2].
In contrast, Mexico's Olmeca refinery is struggling to ramp up production ahead of the December driving season, highlighting challenges in the regional refining landscape [3453f3b2]. The interdependence between U.S. and Canadian oil supplies remains vital, as Canadian crude oil supplied over 23% of the feedstock for U.S. refineries in 2022 [d1e125fb]. As the U.S. refining industry continues to invest heavily in its infrastructure, the relationship with Canadian crude oil suppliers is crucial for North American energy security [409bf405].