Congo signs $23bn deal with China’s Wing Wah for integrated onshore oil and gas development

The Republic of the Congo has signed a $23bn hydrocarbon agreement with oil and gas company Wing Wah Exploration & Production, a subsidiary of China’s energy firm Southernpec, for the integrated development of the onshore Banga Kayo, Holmoni and Cayo permits.

The development is central to Congo’s energy strategy, aiming to lift national oil production to 200,000 barrels per day (bpd) by 2030 and secure long-term growth in its petroleum sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) said in a press statement on September 3.

Under the agreement, signed by Minister of Hydrocarbons of Congo Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of State of Congo Jean-Jacques Bouya and Wing Wah’s president general Xiao Lianping, combined oil output across the three permits is expected to reach more than 1.3 billion barrels by 2050.

The initiative is part of Congo’s broader economic and financial strategy. With an investment of over $23bn, it promises to bring substantial fiscal and para-fiscal revenues, according to the Chamber.

In the statement, the AEC said the deal extended beyond crude extraction. “The agreement advances energy sovereignty through the valorisation of associated gas for domestic use which is key to reducing routine flaring,” the Chamber noted, adding that a dedicated training centre, aimed at boosting local content would be established for the project to equip Congolese citizens at all skill levels.

The project also features an integrated gas monetisation programme aimed at expanding LNG, LPG, butane and propane production in phases to serve both local needs and exports. It includes flexible gas treatment infrastructure, on-site power generation and water systems built for efficiency and community use.

Around 3,000–3,300 Congolese workers are already employed, while surplus power and clean water are being shared with nearby communities, says the Chamber. The training centre will help to access new job opportunities generated by the development.

Wing Wah already operates the onshore Banga Kayo field in Congo, where around 237–250 wells produce about 45,000 bpd, with peak output soon expected to reach 50,000–80,000 bpd. Last year, the government signed an amended Production Sharing Contract (PSC) with the Chinese oil company, setting out a three-phase development plan to expand production and make fuller use of the country’s hydrocarbon resources.

“The Republic of the Congo is aggressively developing its oil and gas resources, led by its Ministry of Hydrocarbons,” said AEC executive chairman NJ Ayuk. “The country’s rapid approach to resource development serves as a model for other African nations rich in natural resources. With ambitious plans to increase production capacity, Congo is set to unlock new opportunities for sustainable economic growth through strategic oil and gas investments.”