The downstream sector refers to the refining of crude oil, and the selling and distribution of natural gas and products that are derived from crude oil. Such products can include LPG, gasoline, jet fuel, diesel fuel, fuel oils, asphalt and petroleum coke. The downstream segment includes oil refineries, petrochemical plants, petroleum distribution outlets, retail outlets and natural gas distribution companies. The downstream sector touches consumers through thousands of products from motor fuels to lubricants and fertilizers to pharmaceuticals.
