South Sudan’s Energy Sector Opens Doors to Investors

South Sudan is positioning its oil and gas industry for renewed investment, with opportunities spanning exploration, production optimisation, pipeline infrastructure and domestic refining. The South Sudan Oil & Power (SSOP) 2026 conference is expected to bring investors, service providers and government decision-makers together in Juba to explore commercial opportunities.

The upstream sector offers entry points for both exploration companies and operators seeking to expand existing production. The Ministry of Petroleum lists 14 open exploration blocks, including A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1, B4, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1 and E2. Geological data and block information are available through the ministry’s established access and acquisition process.

For companies focused on producing assets, the government’s output ambitions could generate demand for drilling, well intervention, enhanced oil recovery and digital production technologies. Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) reported production exceeding 60,000 barrels per day in May 2026, while national output stood at approximately 174,000 bpd in June. Authorities aim to raise production to 230,000 bpd in the near term, with a longer-term target of 450,000 bpd.

Achieving these ambitions will require technical expertise and investment across the value chain. Opportunities extend to seismic services, artificial lift, production chemicals, equipment maintenance and field automation. Nilepet, the national oil company, also plays a central role in exploration, development, production and operations across the country’s joint operating companies.

Midstream infrastructure remains another priority. Disruptions to crude exports through Sudan, including the 2024 rupture affecting the Bashayer pipeline carrying Dar Blend crude, have highlighted the vulnerability of export-dependent production. The Ministry of Petroleum is seeking investment in pipelines, storage and distribution infrastructure to strengthen the sector’s resilience.

Downstream development is also gaining attention as the government seeks to expand domestic refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported fuel. Projects associated with Tharjiath, Thiangrial and other locations form part of these ambitions. A government announcement in 2025 confirmed that a mini-refinery in Unity State had become operational.

SSOP offers a platform for companies to engage directly with prospective partners, financiers and public-sector stakeholders. Its 2023 edition attracted more than 600 delegates from 24 countries and resulted in five strategic agreements covering areas including exploration, drilling and regional energy cooperation.

For prospective investors and suppliers, the 2026 gathering presents an opportunity to assess project requirements, establish local partnerships and advance discussions with key industry players. In a market seeking to increase production and strengthen infrastructure, direct access to decision-makers could prove commercially significant.