Congo accelerates upstream expansion as LNG Phase 2 comes online

The Republic of Congo is entering a period of rapid upstream growth, driven by new LNG capacity, rising oil developments and regulatory reforms aimed at positioning the country as a Central African energy hub.

Congo LNG Phase 2 began operations in December 2025—six months ahead of schedule—adding 2.4 million tpa of capacity and bringing total project output to 3 million tpa. The phase includes three production platforms, the Scarabeo 5 gas treatment and compression unit, and the Nguya FLNG facility, with first cargo expected in early 2026. The milestone follows the late-2023 startup of Phase 1, marking Congo’s emergence as an LNG exporter and underscoring the government’s push to monetize gas resources at pace.

Additional gas-led developments are advancing, including the integrated Bango Kayo project, led by China’s Wing Wah, which targets LNG, LPG, butane and propane production for domestic and regional markets. Scalable infrastructure associated with the project could unlock up to 30 Bcm of gas over 25 years.

On the oil side, Congo is working toward a national target of 500,000 bpd. TotalEnergies is investing $600 million in upstream activity, primarily at Moho Nord, while Trident Energy continues to expand its Congolese portfolio following its 2024 acquisition of Chevron’s assets. Perenco’s Kombi 2 platform is on track for early-2026 startup, and Wing Wah has deepened its footprint with a $23 billion agreement to develop the Bango Kayo, Holmoni and Cayo permits.

These upstream advances come as Congo modernizes its regulatory framework. A new Gas Master Plan and Gas Code—expected this year—aim to improve clarity for investors and accelerate project approvals. The country is also preparing a new licensing round that will offer strategic offshore and onshore acreage.

“The Republic of Congo is demonstrating what strong partnerships and decisive development can deliver,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Billions of dollars in oil and gas opportunities are being unlocked, strengthening both Congo and the wider Central African region.”