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Americas

US chemical production growth stalls: ACC

In April, the US Gulf Coast was the only region to post a small gain. Output declined slightly in the Northeast, and all other regions were flat, according to the latest ACC data.

EPA’s biofuel plan frustrates US refiners, farmers

The increase did not go far enough for the farm lobby and biofuels companies like Poet LLC, which have spent millions to produce advanced biofuels. Meanwhile, oil industry advocates, who have criticized previous targets as unrealistic, renewed calls for an overhaul of the program.

Argentina’s refiners buy Nigerian crude as second foreign cargo of 2016

Because of quality issues -- Argentina has a surplus of heavy crude that is regularly exported, but it does not produce enough light grades -- refining companies plan to import at least 3 MMbbl of crude.

US EPA proposes modest increase in 2017 biofuels blending targets

Releasing the blending targets ahead of 2017 is part of the US EPA's efforts to get the controversial policy program for domestic refiners back on track after many years of delays.

US gasoline, distillate inventories drop as refiners raise operating rates

Gasoline stocks fell 2.5 MMbbl, compared to forecasts for a 150,000-bbl drop. Distillate stockpiles, which include diesel and heating oil, fell 3.2 MMbbl, versus expectations for a 642,000-bbl drop.

Argentina looks to stop light crude imports, boost domestic refining

Increased refining of domestic light crudes and further investment in the oil sector keep country rolling toward energy independence.

Pemex could give up majority stakes in refineries

Pemex's CFO says the company is seeking partners to operate its money-losing refineries and plans to "dilute" its ownership in the plants.

Arson blamed for 2013 Texas fertilizer plant blast

A call for tighter and more thorough regulations was issued following the deadly blast and ensuing fires.

Chile to begin LNG exports to Argentina this week

Chilean state producer ENAP and Argentine state producer ENARSA have been in negotiations in recent months to seal a deal, after Argentina's new business-friendly President Mauricio Macri indicated he was keen to get fuel flowing between the two.

A.W. Chesterton expands Massachusetts training, services hub

A.W. Chesterton Co., a leading industrial equipment fluid sealing specialist, has expanded its facilities north of Boston with a new state-of-the-art valve emissions testing facility, an expansive industrial training center, and an industrial equipment service location to support regional customers.