Fuel specifications can affect where fuel can be sourced and how easily it can move between markets. Supply considerations therefore need to reflect each country’s existing fuel system and import needs.
Gasoline specifications influence which blending components refiners can use. High-octane fuel ethers such as MTBE and ETBE can help refiners achieve the required octane rating, including when blended with lower-octane refinery streams.
Specifications that allow different oxygenate types and blending approaches can provide greater flexibility in meeting fuel specifications.
Refinery petrol streams
Blending without ethers
Fuel ethers
Refinery petrol streams
Blending with ethers
Fuel specifications can widen or restrict where fuel can be sourced. International ethanol supply is more concentrated, while Asia remains a net importer of bioethanol. Fuel policy therefore needs to consider the availability of different blending components and existing domestic supply.
Scroll the map sideways to see every origin.
Fuel ethers (MTBE / ETBE)
Ethanol
Schematic. The map shows the spread of supply origins, not volumes, shares or trade routes.
Reliable fuel supply depends on balancing technical requirements with availability, energy security and local circumstances.