The key facts

  • The project envisages producing high-octane gasoline directly during refining, without raising the octane rating with additives
  • The feasibility study has been developed, the president's approval and the Center for Comprehensive Expertise's conclusion have been received, and a government resolution is being prepared
  • Gasoline reserves for consumer supplies exceed 125 thousand tons, and the refinery's capacity is being used to the maximum

The essence of the project

Uzbekneftegaz plans to modernize the Bukhara oil refinery to increase the output of high-octane gasoline. This was announced on October 27 at a press conference by the company's first deputy chairman of the board, Sukhrob Khamraev, reports Spot.uz. The key feature of the project is the production of high-octane gasoline directly during refining, without the need to raise the octane rating of the finished fuel with additives. Once the project is implemented, importing such additives will no longer be required.

Status and timeline

The feasibility study has already been developed, and the president's approval was received at the October meeting along with a conclusion from the Center for Comprehensive Expertise. Measures are now being taken to approve the project with a corresponding government decision. After the feasibility study is approved and the presidential decree is issued, work could begin in the fourth quarter (October–December) or in 2027.

Tender and financing

According to Khamraev, the project will be implemented following an open tender in which licensors, construction companies and other potential contractors will be able to participate. Part of the financing is planned to be raised as a loan. The representative of the state company emphasized that both the tender and the government resolution on the project's implementation will be open.

Current fuel situation

Uzbekneftegaz's deputy chairman for refining, Abrorjon Khudoyberganov, said that the Bukhara refinery's capacity is currently being used to the maximum: the company is fulfilling its supply plan in full, and gasoline reserves for consumers exceed 125 thousand tons. He also noted that raising the octane rating with additives increases the cost of gasoline, and after the reconstruction and increased output of the new product, its price should decrease.

Context

Spot previously reported that Uzbekistan is discussing with China the import of AI-92 and higher grade gasoline and diesel fuel. The refinery's modernization, if the project is implemented, will affect domestic fuel production: according to the company, dependence on additives will decrease and, as expected, the cost of gasoline will fall. Specific timelines, the amount of financing and the tender winner have not yet been named — the project awaits government approval.