The Republic of Congo is set to ramp up its liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, with an estimated 4.5 billion cubic meters (bcm) expected in 2025 as part of the second phase of its ambitious Congo LNG project.
This was revealed in a news report made available by APO Group and seen by Energy in Africa.
The expansion marks a significant step in the country’s bid to become a major player in the global LNG market, leveraging its vast natural gas reserves.
The Congo LNG project is spearheaded by Italy’s energy giant Eni in partnership with the Congolese government and aims to enhance the nation’s energy output and strengthen its economic position through increased exports.
“This milestone underlines the Republic of Congo’s commitment to maximizing the potential of its natural resources. With the second phase of the Congo LNG project, we are not only boosting production but also positioning our nation as a key energy supplier on the global stage,” said Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, the country’s Minister of Hydrocarbons.
The Congo LNG project, launched in 2023, is the first of its kind in the country and is expected to produce a total of 3 million tonnes of LNG per year once fully operational.
The first phase, which began production in 2024, set the stage for the rapid scale-up anticipated in 2025.
According to Claudio Descalzi, CEO of Eni:
“This is a transformative project, both for the Republic of Congo and for the global LNG market. The collaboration between Eni and the Congolese government has been crucial in fast-tracking development and ensuring we meet our ambitious production targets.”
As global demand for LNG continues to rise, the Republic of Congo’s increased output is expected to play a vital role in diversifying supply chains and stabilizing energy markets, particularly in Europe and Asia.
The 4.5 billion bcm target for 2025 positions the country as a growing force in the international energy landscape.
Congo remains focused on leveraging its natural gas wealth to drive economic development and energy security, both domestically and globally.
Congo’s LNG project is being developed by Eni.
The Italian firm installed the country’s first floating LNG (FLNG) plant at the Marine XII offshore license in 2023, a remarkable milestone that led Congo to shipping its first LNG cargo in February 2024 from Pointe-Noire to Italy.
Congo is currently the third-largest oil producer in Africa and aims to reach a production capacity of 500,000 barrels per day by 2027.
In addition, the country holds an estimated 10 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves, primarily in offshore fields such as Litchendjili, Néné, Minsala and Nkala.
With substantial recoverable reserves in fields like Marine XII, Nkossa and Banga Kayo, Congo’s natural gas sector presents an attractive investment opportunity.
Ongoing gas developments at the Nkossa and M’Boundi fields are expected to bolster the country’s natural gas supply for both domestic power generation and future exports.
The Central African nation is planning its first Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) in Brazzaville from March 24-26, 2025 to further explore cutting-edge technologies and practical solutions for unlocking and monetizing its vast gas resources.
Its national oil company recently revealed plans to raise 200 billion XAF ($319 million) through bond issuance in partnership with regional financiers to drive economic growth.
