Gabon unveils dual Oil and Gas Codes to boost transparency and investment in energy sector
Gabon is introducing a dual legal framework to replace its 2019 Hydrocarbons Code, a move designed to enhance transparency and attract foreign investment across its oil and gas sector. The announcement came during the Invest in Gabon Energies Roundtable, sponsored by the Ministry of Oil and Gas of Gabon, at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025.
Dual framework to improve transparency and attract investors
Minister of Oil and Gas Sosthène Nguema Nguema explained that separating the existing code into a dedicated Oil Code and Gas Code will strengthen regulatory oversight and create a more investor-friendly environment. “The discoveries we have had and the geological research we have undertaken are all revealing the potential that Gabon holds. The government is committed to implementing a legal framework that allows you to be comfortable in exploring,” he said.
Duplex Yockot, Director General of Economic, Legal Affairs and Petroleum Data Management, elaborated that the Oil Code will address legal industry aspects, while the Gas Code will contain terms that secure foreign investment. This regulatory shift aligns with Gabon’s goal of reaching 200,000 barrels per day in oil and gas production. Preye Angaye, Executive Director Infrastructure and New Business at Century Group, emphasized that the country’s “clear goals” will encourage further investments in the sector.
Exploration push and industry momentum
Gabon is complementing the new legal structure with seismic research to improve geological understanding of its basins. Senior Advisor Michel Mouba highlighted ongoing subsurface studies and the country’s focus on promoting undeveloped discoveries through enhanced data accessibility.
State-owned Gabon Oil Company (GOC) continues to drive upstream development, spearheading both mature field redevelopment and frontier exploration. “We have a strong advantage as the national oil company and will assist, partner and drive projects forward in Gabon,” said Emery Lepo, GOC’s Business Strategy Director.
Assala Gabon, the state-owned affiliate of Assala Energy, is also advancing production through asset rejuvenation, drilling campaigns, and infrastructure upgrades. Managing Director Edgar Mba Ognane outlined plans to bring the marginal N’Gongui field online in Q1 2026 and drill an exploration well in 2025.
Meanwhile, Maurel & Prom continues to position Gabon as a cornerstone of its upstream portfolio, producing around 16,000 barrels of oil per day and investing in modern recovery technologies. CEO Olivier de Langavant stressed the growing importance of gas in Gabon’s energy mix and the need to integrate local communities into development projects.
