Saharan Blend Crude & Refined Products: The Premium Sweet Standard 2026

Powering Mediterranean Refineries with High-Yield, Low-Sulfur Hydrocarbons

Algeria is the primary source of Saharan Blend, a world-class light, sweet crude oil (API 44–45°) that commands a premium in global markets. In 2026, our upstream and downstream activities are integrated via the $60 Billion Sonatrach Strategic Plan, ensuring that both crude feedstock and high-spec refined preparations—such as Euro 5 diesel and low-sulfur fuel oil—are available for institutional off-take.

1. Saharan Blend Crude Oil (HS 2709)

Globally recognized as a "refiner’s favorite," Saharan Blend is optimized for high yields of gasoline and middle distillates. Its exceptionally low sulfur content significantly reduces desulfurization costs and aligns with 2026 global environmental mandates.

  • Density: API Gravity 44.0° – 45.0°.

  • Sulfur Content: < 0.10% (Ultra-Sweet).

  • Yield Profile: High naphtha and kerosene fractions.

  • Pricing Index: Historically trades at a premium to Dated Brent (targeting +$1.50 to +$2.50 in early 2026).

2. Refined Petroleum Products (HS 2710)

Algeria’s refining complex at Skikda (RA1K)—one of Africa’s largest with a 350,000 bpd capacity—delivers a diverse range of finished products for the Mediterranean and Atlantic basins.

  • Low-Sulfur Diesel (ULSD): Fully compliant with EN 590 standards.

  • Gasoline/Naphtha: High-octane blending components for global chemical hubs.

  • Aviation Fuel (Jet A-1): Direct-to-wing and bulk export specifications.

  • Fuel Oil: Low-sulfur variants for IMO-compliant maritime shipping.

3. Infrastructure & Export Logistics

Our midstream network ensures seamless delivery from the Hassi Messaoud fields to the deep-water terminals of the Mediterranean coast.

  • Major Terminals: * Arzew: Optimized for Saharan Blend and condensate loading (VLCC & Suezmax compatible).

    • Skikda: Dedicated berths for refined product exports and specialized chemical tankers.

    • Bejaia: Specialized in light sweet crude and condensate dispatch.

  • Storage Capacity: Combined strategic storage exceeding 1.4 million barrels/day throughput capacity at coastal hubs.

4. 2026 Technical Specifications & Compliance

ProductSpecific GravitySulfur (max)Key GradeSaharan Blend0.801 – 0.8100.1%Light Sweet CrudeDiesel (ULSD)0.845 (max)10 ppmEuro 5 / Euro 6Naphtha0.680 – 0.7200.05%Chemical Grade

5. Strategic Allocation & Refining Partnerships

In 2026, Sonatrach’s refining strategy prioritizes long-term off-take agreements with Tier-1 international trading houses and state refineries. Our refined products allow partners to bypass the high complexity costs associated with heavy/sour alternatives.

Strategic Trade Support

The AlgerianLNG.com Crude & Downstream Desk manages spot-tender allocations and multi-year supply contracts. With Algeria’s domestic refining self-sufficiency achieved, our 2026 exportable surplus is at an all-time high.

[Download Saharan Blend 2026 Assay Report]

[View Refined Product Availability Calendar]

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