The Republic of Congo has commenced exports from Phase 2 of its Congo liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, raising national liquefaction capacity to 3 million tons per annum and reinforcing its role in Africa’s expanding gas export market.
The development was announced in a statement distributed by Energy Capital & Power.
Operated by Eni, the second phase began exporting from the newly commissioned Nguya floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility. The first cargo was delivered in early 2026 following commissioning completed ahead of schedule, according to the statement.
Phase 2 was executed in approximately 35 months and complements output from the earlier Tango FLNG unit. The project draws gas from the offshore Nené and Litchendjili fields under the Marine XII license, positioning Congo to expand its footprint in global gas markets at a time when European buyers are seeking diversified supply sources.
The export milestone comes ahead of Hydrocarbons Minister Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua’s scheduled participation at the Invest in African Energy Forum 2026 in Paris on April 22–23, where he is expected to present investment opportunities across LNG, marginal fields and exploration.
Energy Capital & Power noted that upstream momentum is also building. TotalEnergies recently secured the Nzombo exploration permit and plans a one-well drilling program, while Perenco is redeveloping the Kombi-Likalala-Libondo II offshore field with a new platform aimed at extending production and improving gas recovery.
The statement added that the Ministry of Hydrocarbons is advancing regulatory reforms, including a new gas code designed to streamline fiscal terms and clarify investment rules. Previous engagements at the Invest in African Energy Forum led to agreements such as a 2023 partnership with Technip Energies focused on expanding onshore and offshore capacity and advancing decarbonization efforts.
Congo’s expansion from a mature oil producer to an emerging LNG exporter reflects a broader shift across African energy markets toward integrated, export-oriented gas strategies, the statement said.
