1. What It Is:
Export Blend Crude is a general term for a blended crude oil specifically formulated for international export. The blend usually combines various domestic crude streams to meet desired export quality standards (API gravity, sulfur, etc.).
- Diluted Bitumen (Dilbit): Canada’s export blend of heavy bitumen + condensate
- CPC Blend: From Kazakhstan, lighter and low-sulfur
3. Typical Characteristics:
- API Gravity: Varies from heavy to light (e.g., 20° to 40°)
- Sulfur Content: Varies (sweet <0.5%, sour >1%)
- Blended to suit refinery demand and export logistics
- May require upgrading or desalting before refining
4. Applications:
- Used by refineries worldwide to produce gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, fuel oil, etc.
- The quality determines the yield and complexity required in refining
5. Market Role:
- Export blends are key to national oil strategies
- Often sold under long-term contracts or on the spot market
- Prices benchmarked against Brent, WTI, Dubai, or regional references
