Egypt has one of the strongest refining industries in Africa based in the Port Suez refinery complex. Egypt constitutes one of the largest markets for lubricants in Africa, accounting for as much as a sixth of the continents demand for lubricants. It is also one of the main producers of lubricants with three refineries producing base oils. EGPC is planning to increases production of lube oils. Egypt's strong petroleum industry supports the key chemicals sectors, fertilizers, petrochemicals, polymers and other chemicals.
Plans are also underway to expand the petrochemical industry in Egypt.
It is active in the upstream, downstream and petrochemical sectors. The EGPC has full responsibility for all sectors of the Egyptian petroleum industry and holds the sole right to import and export crude oil and other petroleum products. The upstream oil and gas industry is a significant contributor to Egypt's economy. The main areas of exploration for oil and gas are the Gulf of Suez, the Nile Delta, the Western Desert, the Sinai Peninsula and the Eastern Desert. The Gulf of Suez, although mature with decreasing production levels, remains the major oil source of oil.