Downstream petroleum business in Africa is going through a critical transformational period. After the price-volatile and often challenging years of 2009 and 2010, the calming markets have caused operators to reappraise the markets and reposition for increased competition, efficiency and profit. Regulators are also keen to ensure past mistakes are avoided. Petroleum products’ appetite by key nations across the continent has not abated, thereby driving a strong, active and increasingly sophisticated downstream petroleum market. Governments and national oil companies maintain a desire for petroleum products’ self sufficiency, thereby ensuring that refining, despite its challenges, remains a primary concern. Entrepreneurial and investor interest is also robust on petrochemicals, with lubricants, synthetic rubber, plastics, fertilizers, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, natural gas and propane all potentially poised as leading investment options.

All these and more come together at the OTL Africa Downstream Expo 2010, in a riveting confluence of knowledge, networks, business and rewards.