What we do
Methanol is a highly versatile commodity and one for which demand is growing rapidly. Methanol derivatives find use in both energy and petrochemical applications. In the energy sector the market for methanol is expanding rapidly as methanol is used in transportation fuels such as MTBE, bio-diesel and gasoline blending. With bio-fuel mandates increasing yearly, methanol demand for this application will continue to grow. Through DME (dimethyl ether) methanol can be used as an LPG substitute, particularly in bottled gas markets. In the traditional petrochemical sector methanol derivatives are used in everything from adhesives to paints and polyester.
In 2011, Vitol marketed over 2m tonnes of methanol globally and has similar plans for 2012.
A major player in the methanol marketplace since 1989, Vitol is a truly global trader and marketer of methanol and has the logistics reach, strategic storage capacity, arbitrage expertise and flexibility to both break-bulk and serve the diverse needs of end users.
Where we do it
Vitol has methanol teams in Houston, Geneva, Rotterdam, London, Dubai, Singapore, and Beijing. Vitol’s key partnership in Oman Trading International supports its growing methanol business via its offtake from the Salalah Methanol Company. We also have long term supply and offtake relationships with producers and consumers in the US, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
How we do it
We focus on building long term relationships based on our ability to provide security of supply from multiple supply sources. Large trading flows – combined with comprehensive storage in key locations and our status as one of the world’s largest charterers of shipping – mean we can meet practically any demand, anywhere, any time.
We also have the risk management tools and financial stability to put in place pre-financing arrangements and manage risk regardless of market conditions.
2m Vitol plans to move 2m tonnes of methanol globally in 2012