The Dangote Refinery is set to commence the production of polypropylene by the end of October 2024, marking a significant step towards reducing Nigeria’s dependency on imported polypropylene, a key material used across various industries such as packaging, textiles, and automotive manufacturing.

Dangote Refinery
Dangote Petroleum Refinery

Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, announced that the refinery, as it nears full operational capacity, will be able to meet the entire domestic demand for polypropylene. This move is poised to eliminate the need for imports, which currently cost Nigeria approximately $267.7 million annually.

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This development is particularly important for local manufacturers who have faced challenges due to foreign exchange fluctuations and the long delays associated with importing raw materials. By producing polypropylene locally, the refinery will help stabilize the supply chain, reduce costs associated with importation, and strengthen the Nigerian economy by minimizing reliance on foreign goods.

Dangote emphasized that starting from October 2024, Nigeria will no longer need to import polypropylene, which has historically been sourced from countries like Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, China, and Vietnam. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, Nigeria imported polypropylene worth N99.6 billion, making it one of the top imported products.

Polypropylene is a versatile plastic widely used in industries for packaging and manufacturing various products. Its flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness make it a preferred material for items ranging from food packaging to automotive parts. The growing demand for polypropylene, driven by the increasing consumption of packaged goods, underscores the importance of this development for Nigeria’s industrialization efforts.

The Dangote Refinery’s move to produce polypropylene locally will not only boost the country’s manufacturing sector but also align with its broader goals of self-sufficiency and economic resilience​