Brazil Considers UCO Imports for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production
Brazilian refineries are exploring the import of used cooking oil (UCO) to enhance sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) output, addressing domestic collection challenges. The government is contemplating a quota for UCO imports, which could primarily source from Asia, aiming to boost SAF production margins.
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Brazilian refineries are poised to import used cooking oil (UCO) to boost sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, responding to domestic collection and traceability limitations. Currently, UCO imports are prohibited, but a proposed government quota may change that, potentially allowing imports solely for SAF.
The Brazilian UCO market is unregulated, prompting the rendering association Abra to advocate for structured market development, including improving traceability and establishing economic activity classifications. Brazil can collect approximately 2 million metric tonnes of UCO annually, representing 40% of its edible oil consumption.
The 17,000 b/d Riograndense refinery plans to invest in oilseeds, while the Mataripe refinery aims to transition to macauba oil by 2035 for SAF production. Brazil's current SAF output stands at 10,500 b/d, with projections reaching 101,600 b/d by year-end. The ProBioQAV program mandates gradual GHG reductions in aviation fuel starting in 2027.
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