About the Industry

Upstream vs. Downstream

Two distinct sectors make up the petroleum industry: upstream and downstream.

The upstream sector includes exploration and development companies involved in the search for and production of crude oil, natural gas and oil from the tar sands.

The downstream sector, and the focus of this website, includes crude oil refiners, product distribution terminals, truck, rail, pipeline and marine transportation, and retail gasoline marketers.  Sales divisions focus on wholesale, industrial and commercial customers. 

Familiar downstream sector products are:

• Gasoline
• Diesel
• Jet fuel
• Home heating oil
• Propane
• Lubricating oils

Other products produced through the refining process:

• Asphalt
• Sulphur
• Butane
• Plastics
• Fibres for clothing and carpeting
• Petroleum jelly
• Ingredients for cosmetics and pharmaceutical products