The Gabonese government has given the go-ahead for the construction of a new oil refinery, aiming to alleviate recurring fuel shortages and bolster the country's energy security. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting on October 8, 2026, which approved the launch of preliminary studies for the project without delay. The move comes after a recent fuel shortage hit the capital city of Libreville and several other towns across the country.
The new refinery is expected to complement the existing Société gabonaise de raffinage (Sogara), which is currently the only refinery in Gabon, located in Port-Gentil. However, Sogara has a limited theoretical processing capacity of around 1.2 million tons per year, which has struggled to meet the nation's growing demand for super, diesel, and kerosene. The government has acknowledged that structural weaknesses in the national supply system, including the burden of subsidies and outdated refining capacities, have contributed to the shortages.
The project is part of a broader program aimed at improving energy security in Gabon. Previous attempts to develop a new refinery have been announced by previous governments, but none have come to fruition. In 2012, an agreement was reached with Samsung for a new refinery on Île Mandji, while another deal with SK Energy to study the construction of a modern refinery near Sogara was also validated, but ultimately not implemented.
The government has cited several benefits for the new refinery, including reducing reliance on imported refined products, enhancing energy security, and increasing local value-added activities. By boosting domestic production, Gabon aims to mitigate the impact of external market fluctuations and logistical disruptions on its fuel supply. Additionally, the project is expected to create jobs, stimulate industrial skills, and generate economic activity during both the construction and operational phases.
Several international partners have expressed interest in participating in the project. In October 2025, the Gabonese Ministry of Petroleum and Gas signed a protocol agreement with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) for the construction of a new refinery in Port-Gentil. While previous initiatives have stalled, the government is under pressure to deliver a concrete plan, with the next cabinet meeting expected to unveil a comprehensive program, including a realistic timeline and financing framework.
The recent fuel shortage has had significant economic and social implications, with widespread disruptions to daily life and economic activities. The government has assured citizens that it will closely monitor the situation until a stable and sustainable supply is restored. The introduction of a new tax on gas flaring is also part of efforts to address the country's energy challenges.
With the project now officially greenlit, the Gabonese government faces a tight deadline to prepare a viable plan and secure financing for the new refinery. The successful implementation of this project could mark a significant step towards achieving energy self-sufficiency and supporting the country's economic development. Key stakeholders will be watching closely as the project moves forward.
Key points
- The new oil refinery aims to address Gabon's recurring fuel shortages and improve energy security.
- The project is expected to create jobs, stimulate industrial skills, and generate economic activity.
- Previous attempts to develop a new refinery have been announced, but none have come to fruition.
