The synthesis gas unit consumes a considerable part of the capital cost in a plant for production of synthetic (Fischer-Tropsch) fuels. Oxygen-blown autothermal reforming (ATR) has been identified as the preferred option for large-scale synthesis gas production. This paper describes recent developments in pre-reforming and autothermal reforming including results of pilot plant demonstrations at low steam-to-carbon ratios. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V All rights reserved.