The downstream sector of the oil and gas industry involves the refining of the crude oil and/or raw natural gases obtained in the upstream sector as well as selling or distributing the products obtained. Many products are derived from the refining of crude oil and these may include diesel oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), asphalt, petroleum coke, gasoline, fertilizers, antifreeze, plastics, rubbers, pesticides, synthetic rubber, jet fuel and many more.

The downstream sector of the industry is the sector that relates with the consumers. Facilities involved in this sector include petrochemical plants, oil refineries, natural gas distribution companies, retail outlets and so forth.

The main processes involved in the upstream and downstream oil and gas operation include the following:

  • Exploration
  • Extraction
  • Refining
  • Transporting