TotalEnergies to divest 50% stake in Total PARCO Pakistan to Gunvor Group

TotalEnergies has announced it will sell its 50% stake in Total PARCO Pakistan Limited (TPPL) to Gunvor Group, a leading global commodities trading company. This significant transaction reflects TotalEnergies’ ongoing strategy to refine its portfolio by focusing on core geographies with substantial growth and transition opportunities.

Details of the Strategic Sale

TotalEnergies’ decision to sell its stake in TPPL, a joint venture with Pak-Arab Refinery Limited (PARCO), comes as part of its broader strategy to streamline operations and concentrate on more profitable markets. TPPL operates a diverse network in Pakistan, including over 800 service stations, extensive fuel logistics, and lubricants activities. This network is pivotal in Pakistan’s fuel distribution and retail sector, demonstrating the scale and importance of the business.

The transaction stipulates that the retail operations under the “Total Parco” brand and the lubricants business under the “Total” brand will continue for the next five years. This move ensures stability for customers and partners during the transition period, maintaining brand continuity in the market.

TotalEnergies’ Strategic Focus

The sale aligns with TotalEnergies’ strategy to optimise its Marketing & Services segment. The company is increasingly focusing on markets where it can achieve substantial growth and transition, particularly in emerging and high-growth regions. This divestment from TPPL allows TotalEnergies to reallocate resources and investments to areas with greater potential for strategic expansion and higher returns.

In recent years, TotalEnergies has undertaken a series of divestments and strategic shifts to align with its long-term vision of becoming a world-class energy player with a strong focus on sustainability and renewable energy. This move underscores TotalEnergies’ commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and concentrating on markets with significant growth potential.

Gunvor Group’s Acquisition Strategy

Gunvor Group, known for its extensive trading operations in commodities, including crude oil and refined products, is expanding its footprint through this acquisition. The company’s strategic interests in the region align with its broader goals of diversifying its trading operations and leveraging growth opportunities in emerging markets.

Gunvor’s acquisition of TotalEnergies’ stake in TPPL positions it to play a more prominent role in Pakistan’s energy sector. The deal provides Gunvor with an established retail and logistics network, enhancing its market presence in a strategically important region.

Regulatory Approval and Future Outlook

The sale is subject to approval by the relevant regulatory authorities in Pakistan, as well as the finalisation of related agreements. The regulatory process is expected to involve thorough scrutiny given the significance of the transaction and its impact on the local market.

TotalEnergies’ sale of its stake in Total PARCO Pakistan Limited to Gunvor Group signifies a pivotal shift in its strategic direction. By focusing on core markets with substantial growth opportunities, TotalEnergies is not only streamlining its operations but also positioning itself for future expansion in emerging markets. For Gunvor Group, this acquisition provides a robust platform for increasing its market presence in a key region.