The Republic of Congo has begun first exports from Congo LNG Phase 2, marking a major expansion of its liquefied natural gas footprint just weeks before a key investor gathering in Paris.
The second phase, operated by Eni, is exporting from the newly commissioned Nguya floating liquefied natural gas vessel. The addition lifts national liquefaction capacity to 3 million tons per annum after the project delivered its first cargo in early 2026, ahead of schedule.
Developed in roughly 35 months, Congo LNG Phase 2 builds on the earlier Tango FLNG unit. Together, the facilities strengthen the country’s positioning as an emerging LNG exporter at a time when global buyers seek diversified supply.
Gas feeding the expansion is sourced from the offshore Nené and Litchendjili fields under the Marine XII license. The ramp-up gives Congo greater exposure to international gas markets as Europe and other regions reassess supply chains.
Minister engagement highlights investment drive
The export milestone comes ahead of Hydrocarbons Minister Bruno Jean‑Richard Itoua’s participation at the Invest in African Energy Forum 2026, scheduled for April 22–23 in Paris.
At the forum, Itoua is expected to outline opportunities spanning gas monetization, LNG expansion, marginal fields and new exploration acreage. The engagement gives investors direct access to the country’s upstream and midstream strategy as Congo accelerates energy sector reform.
International interest in the broader hydrocarbons sector has intensified. TotalEnergies recently secured the Nzombo exploration permit with a one-well drilling program, while Perenco is redeveloping the Kombi-Likalala-Libondo II offshore field through a new production platform aimed at extending output and gas recovery.
Regulatory reform and export strategy align
Beyond infrastructure expansion, Congo’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons is advancing regulatory modernization. A new gas code nearing adoption is designed to clarify fiscal terms and streamline rules for investors.
Previous engagements at the Invest in African Energy Forum have produced tangible agreements. In 2023, Congo signed a cooperation pact with Technip Energies to enhance onshore and offshore capacity and collaborate on decarbonization initiatives.
The start of Congo LNG Phase 2 underscores a broader transition from mature oil production toward integrated, export-oriented gas development. By pairing policy engagement with rapid infrastructure delivery, Congo is positioning itself as a competitive LNG supplier in evolving global markets.
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