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Europe

French union calls for widespread shutdown of refineries by workers

The vote, aimed at pressuring the socialist government of President Francoise Hollande to withdraw a labor reform bill which the unions consider as unfavorable to workers, could stoke concerns over refined products supply in France.

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.

Nigerian union proceeds with fuel protest strike

The government hopes lifting costly fuel subsidies, causing prices to rise by up to two thirds at the pumps, will help alleviate the worst crisis in decades in Africa's biggest economy.

Worker killed in accident at Komsomolsk refinery of Russia’s Rosneft

The worker was from a contractor firm working on the site, Rosneft said in a statement. The accident occurred during tests at a pipeline which was undergoing maintenance works.

Brazil exports diesel to Europe as patterns reverse

At least two 37,000-ton cargoes of diesel, on the tankers Torm Gunhild and MT Alexandros, have sailed in recent weeks from Brazil to Europe, according to Reuters ship tracking data and traders.

Total plans to sell specialty chemicals unit Atotech

Pouyanne did not give details about the planned sale of Atotech or if it was talking to potential buyers, but said Total was looking for a buyer that was committed to sustaining Atotech's current strategy.

Cepsa expects Indonesian chemical JV to start up by end of this year

"We are targeting to produce 75% of capacity initially after commissioning by end of the year but it also depends on the markets," said Jose Manuel Martinez, CEO of Cepsa Quimica.

US sees Nord Stream gas link as security threat

Many EU governments complain that the Nord Stream proposal increases dependency on Russia's Gazprom, which supplies around a third of the European Union's gas.

China cuts West African oil imports as refiners cite delays, full tanks

HP Editorial Staff: HP News Services

Chinese loadings of West African crude declined from 19-month highs in May as delivery delays, port congestion and full tanks scuppered interest from private 'teapot' refiners.

Couche-Tard acquires Shell’s downstream retail business in Denmark

The transaction between Shell and Couche-Tard has received the appropriate regulatory approvals, and all final closing requirements have been completed.