Downstream: In September 2022, the government of Cameroon indicated it will launch a public tender to refurbish the national oil refinery SONARA. Due to the high level of refined petroleum imports, there have also been calls to build a second refinery. A second refinery would represent a significant business opportunity for U.S. firms.
What is the oil industry like in Cameroon?
Oil exploration and exploitation is done by companies such as Pecten, Elf Serepca, Shell, all based in Douala. Cameroon does not market all its crude oil. There is an oil refinery company, SONARA, based in Limbe. For an oil producing country, the passing of oil and gas regulations is very important.
How is crude oil produced in Cameroon?
In Cameroon, the supply of refined oil products is carried out using two methods, local production or direct import. SONARA usually meets up with 80% of oil consumption whereas direct import meets up with the remaining 20%. Local production is carried out by SONARA where it imports crude oil and refine it before transferring them to SCDP.
How does Cameroon supply oil & gas products?
The supply and distribution chain of oil and gas products usually goes through refining, storage, transportation and distribution. In Cameroon, the supply of refined oil products is carried out using two methods, local production or direct import.