Algeria becomes Europe's leading naphtha supplier, exporting 397,400 tonnes in July
Algeria significantly increased its naphtha exports to Europe in July 2026, delivering 397,400 tonnes and becoming the top supplier to the European market. This volume represents the highest monthly level recorded by Algeria since May 2025, surpassing Italy 264,700 tonnes, Spain 212,300 tonnes, and the United States 160,800 tonnes. European naphtha imports reached 1.74 million tonnes in July, up from 1.25 million tonnes in June, a 39.2% increase. Algeria's geographical proximity to Europe allows it to supply Mediterranean countries without long maritime routes. Tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb Strait have altered international energy flows, making Algeria's location a logistical advantage. Some Algerian volumes previously destined for Asia have been redirected to Europe. Additionally, Algerian naphtha exports to Asia also rose, from 292,000 tonnes in June to 441,000 tonnes in July. Japan, which imports about 95% of its naphtha from the Middle East, expressed intentions in May to triple its imports from Algeria. Algeria aims to increase its naphtha production capacity, with Sonatrach planning a new project to add 738,000 tonnes. The country currently exports nearly one million tonnes of naphtha annually and is diversifying its energy exports beyond crude oil and natural gas to include refined products.
