Natref operational response after mid‑August downstream shutdown
Key highlights
- A downstream unit had an unplanned shutdown in mid‑August, coinciding with a separate planned unit outage.
- The interruptions impacted refinery production and supply.
- Natref will keep the affected unit operational until end‑September to improve continuity.
- Measures aim to stabilise jet fuel availability, supporting supply to key customers including OR Tambo Airport; Sasol is coordinating with industry stakeholders.
Incident
In mid‑August 2026 Natref experienced an unplanned shutdown of a downstream unit that coincided with a planned shutdown of a separate unit, affecting refinery production and supply.
Operational measures
Natref has implemented measures to keep the affected unit operational until end September to improve refinery continuity and provide additional flexibility.
Market impact and stakeholders
Those measures are intended to support more stable jet fuel availability to the market and to continue supplying key customers, including customers at OR Tambo International Airport. Sasol is working with key industry stakeholders to ensure continuity of product supply to customers.
Next steps
Further updates will be communicated as appropriate.
Source: Sasol