Dangote Refinery has reportedly acquired its first cargo of Algeria’s light sweet Saharan Blend crude, according to Argus Media.

Dangote Refinery reportedly purchased a 1 million-barrel cargo of Algeria’s Saharan Blend crude from Glencore, with delivery expected between March 15-20, according to Argus Media.

The deal has not been directly confirmed by either party, and the price remains undisclosed.

The Refinery stated in February that it could reach full operational capacity in March.

The Head of the Dangote oil refinery, Devakumar Edwin, said the refinery was operating at 85 per cent capacity and “we can go 100 percent in 30 days.”

According to Argus Media, no tankers that loaded in Algeria in February flagged Africa as their destination, indicating that Dangote Refinery’s 1 million-barrel Saharan Blend cargo is likely scheduled to load in March.

Vortexa data indicate that nearly 420,000 bpd of crude has been delivered to Lekki for Dangote Refinery this year, with 82% consisting of light sweet grades. Nigerian crude made up 87% of total arrivals.

Meanwhile, the March-loading cycle for Algeria’s Saharan Blend has been slow, partly due to reduced European demand caused by seasonal refinery maintenance and ample light crude supply, according to Argus Media.

This market dynamic may have influenced Dangote’s decision to purchase the cargo.