Bringing science into fuel policy decisions

ACFA has worked with policymakers, technical institutions and industry stakeholders in China for more than two decades as the country’s fuel standards have evolved.

This engagement has included technical exchanges on gasoline properties, fuel oxygenates and environmental considerations, as well as contributions to discussions surrounding fuel-quality standards.

Supporting technical understanding

ACFA has collaborated with Chinese industry and research organisations to share scientific information and international experience on gasoline components and fuel performance.

These activities have supported technical dialogue on fuel-quality requirements and implementation considerations.

Continuing the science

More recently, ACFA collaborated with Chinese partners on a three-year environmental risk assessment of MTBE, completed in 2024.

The project involved Chinese and international experts, research on environmental exposure and fieldwork at representative sites.

The assessment found no unreasonable environmental risk from MTBE in surface water under the conditions studied.

Why it matters

Fuel policies can have significant implications for fuel quality, supply and the options available to refiners.

Scientific research and technical exchange can help inform fuel-quality discussions as standards and market conditions evolve.

China’s experience demonstrates the value of examining gasoline components through scientific evidence and practical considerations.