Côte d’Ivoire: PETROCI ships first crude cargo after taking over operations of Espoir oil field

Côte d’Ivoire’s state-owned oil company PETROCI has completed its first crude oil shipment as operator of the Espoir offshore field, marking a new phase in the country’s efforts to strengthen its role in the management of its petroleum resources.

The first crude lifting was carried out on October 31 by PETROCI CI-26, a wholly owned subsidiary of PETROCI Holding. The operation took place just over three months after the Ivorian state-owned group took over operational control of the CI-26 oil block from Canadian Natural Resources (CNR) International.

The transfer was formalised on July 24, 2026, ending CNR International’s role as operator of the block. On September 9, the Ivorian government approved the creation of PETROCI CI-26, a subsidiary fully owned by PETROCI Holding and tasked with operating the block on behalf of the state.

Located offshore near Jacqueville, the Espoir field lies within the CI-26 block. Discovered in 1980, it produces crude oil and associated natural gas. Its current development phase began in February 2002, with production supported by a floating production, storage and offloading vessel, commonly known as an FPSO.

PETROCI said the first lifting involved Ivorian engineers, geoscientists, technicians and offshore and onshore operators. The company described the operation as evidence of its growing ability to coordinate complex petroleum activities, from production to the commercialisation of crude oil.

The development represents a shift in PETROCI’s role in the country’s oil industry. Beyond its participation in projects operated by international companies, the national oil group is now directly managing operations at the Espoir field through its dedicated subsidiary.

The first shipment marks an important operational milestone. Maintaining production, managing costs and developing local technical expertise will be key to consolidating this new responsibility.

The company has not publicly disclosed the volume or commercial value of the first cargo.