Sogara presented a timetable for building its new refinery between 2027 and 2030 during industrial hearings held while the Gabonese president was visiting China. The report issued on 6 November by the Gabonese Press Agency, citing the presidential press, states that its executives were accompanied by Chinese contractor CC7 and Technip Energies, responsible for engineering.
According to the announcement, the facility is to triple the country's refining capacity. The project also targets a reserve of refined fuels covering 90 days of consumption, with the aim of meeting national demand, strengthening supply security and serving markets in Central Africa. These capacities remain objectives of the project as presented.
Two engineering study contracts announced in April
This timetable builds on technical work already under way at Port-Gentil. On 14 April 2026, Technip Energies had announced two detailed front-end engineering design contracts awarded by Sogara. They cover both the modernisation of the existing refinery and its expansion, two complementary components of the industrial programme.
The first contract concerns upgrading the current processing units. It includes a new kerosene sweetening unit as well as four additional storage facilities. Technip Energies is to ensure process integration between the existing equipment and the new units.
The second contract covers studies for a modular hydrocracking complex intended to increase refining capacity. Its scope also includes a new marine jetty and unloading equipment. Technip Energies' methane reforming technology is to be deployed for hydrogen production.
Both projects are designed to meet Africa 5 specifications on fuel quality, notably sulphur content. The industrial challenge therefore combines higher output, product adaptation and logistics equipment. The contracts announced in April concern preparatory studies for these changes.
Pipeline study for domestic distribution
Domestic distribution within Gabon also features in the presidential requests. Sogara and its partners have been tasked with studying a pipeline to the centre of the country, in particular to improve supplies to Ogooué-Ivindo and Woleu-Ntem. This request remains at the study stage.
In its review of the visit published on 8 November, the Presidency confirms the hearing devoted to the new refinery. It entrusts the government with monitoring industrial commitments, project by project, with a designated official and a timetable.