AfrOil: Niger’s first oil export to China in doubt over border dispute

Benin has blocked the export of Niger's crude oil from its port after Abuja refused to open its land borders for goods coming from Benin, Bloomberg reports.

As of May 8, at least three vessels have been prevented from docking at the port, according to the news agency.

Niger, which is landlocked, had made a deal to allow it to export oil. Niger’s maiden crude oil export is expected in April, as part of a $400mn loan agreement with China National Petroleum Corp. (CNPC). CNPC has invested substantial funds into Benin, including the construction of a pipeline spanning 1,200 miles to facilitate oil transportation to Benin's port.

Speaking about the situation, Beninese President Patrice Talon emphasised the principle of reciprocity, stating that cooperation must be mutual.

“If you want to load your oil in our waters, you can't view Benin as an enemy and at the same time expect your oil to cross our territory,” he said on May 8.

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