The Benelux countries—Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg—are urging the rest of Europe to ban the export of highly polluting fuels to other parts of the world. These fuels, which contain excessive levels of sulfur, benzene, and manganese, are far more toxic than what European regulations allow. While these fuels are cheaper than cleaner alternatives and legal for export, the Benelux countries have already committed to a UN directive prohibiting their trade.

“Now, we are calling on other nations to follow our lead,” said Frans Weekers, Secretary-General of the Benelux. “If these fuels are too dangerous for people and the environment in Europe, then they are certainly just as harmful outside of Europe.” The Netherlands and Belgium account for nearly half of all gasoline exports to West Africa, with 65.2 million liters shipped daily. With Africa’s automobile market rapidly expanding, the Benelux countries recognize their significant environmental impact and are taking responsibility by pushing for an international ban.

For years, countries like Ghana and Senegal have been receiving low-quality, heavily polluted fuel that does not meet European safety standards. These exports have been a long-standing concern due to their severe health and environmental risks. The United Nations and several African governments have requested stricter regulations, prompting the Benelux nations to act. Weekers hopes this move will “inspire other countries to do the same.”

One of the biggest challenges is the so-called “waterbed effect”, where a ban in one country simply shifts exports to another. Investigative research by journalist collective Spit revealed that banning dirty fuel in one country often leads to another country picking up the trade. To end this loophole, Weekers emphasizes that all European nations must adopt the UN directive and turn it into national law to ensure an effective, widespread ban.The Benelux countries want the European Union to take concrete steps to stop dirty fuel exports. They also plan to enforce the ban nationally, with the Netherlands aiming to implement full restrictions by 2027. As global awareness of environmental damage and climate change grows, the Benelux initiative may serve as a model for other regions to take similar actions and stop the export of toxic fuels worldwide.