Policies Take Shape

At the forefront of Congo’s policy initiatives is the development of a new Gas Code and the upcoming launch of its Gas Master Plan (GMP). These measures aim to create a conducive environment for investment across the natural gas value chain by offering clearer regulatory guidelines and incentives for exploration and production. The GMP outlines a comprehensive roadmap for infrastructure investment, including the development of new processing plants, pipelines and power generation facilities, setting the stage for enhanced industrialization and economic growth.

These policies reflect the country’s strong focus on natural gas development. Notable projects include Eni’s Congo LNG initiative, which resulted in the country's first LNG export earlier this year. Phase 2, expected in 2025, will substantially increase output, positioning Congo as a regional LNG leader. Meanwhile, the Bango Kayo integrated gas development led by China's Wing Wah aims to enhance local gas processing and valorization, providing critical energy supplies for the domestic market, while reducing flaring and maximizing resource utilization.

New Licensing Opportunities

The RoC’s commitment to attracting international investment is further demonstrated by its plans to open a licensing round by early 2025. This initiative will offer exploration and production opportunities across onshore, marginal and deepwater blocks, reflecting the government’s intent to make RoC a key destination for upstream investment. Minister of Hydrocarbons Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua has been vocal about the importance of creating an attractive legal and fiscal framework to build investor confidence and stimulate growth in the sector, which has already captured the attention of industry stakeholders. New entrants to the market include oil and gas independent Trident Energy and full-cycle energy company Kariya Energy, along with expansions by existing players Perenco and TotalEnergies.

National oil company Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC) has been instrumental in driving upstream projects forward, including joint ventures with international players. Led by Managing Director Maixent Raoul Ominga, the NOC’s strategic goal is to reach a production target of 500,000 barrels per day in the coming years, enhancing the country’s position in the global energy market. SNPC’s efforts extend beyond oil, with active involvement in natural gas development and infrastructure projects that are essential to the country’s long-term energy sustainability and economic growth.

Refinery Makes Progress

The downstream segment is also undergoing modernization to enhance domestic access to refined products. The upcoming Atlantic Petrochemical Refinery, developed in partnership with China’s Beijing Fortune Dingheng Investment, aims to address supply shortfalls and meet domestic energy needs, while future projects may expand export potential. Environmental sustainability remains central to the RoC’s energy agenda, with initiatives focused on carbon capture and forest conservation, leveraging the country’s vast forest coverage as a major carbon sink. This commitment underscores Congo’s broader vision of balancing industrial growth with environmental stewardship.

Looking ahead, the IAE 2025 Forum will provide a critical platform for international investors, government representatives and industry leaders to convene and drive the RoC’s energy agenda forward. With a clear strategic direction and a commitment to sustainable growth, the RoC’s evolving energy sector is poised to play a transformative role in the continent’s broader landscape.

IAE 2025 is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.invest-africa-energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.