PETROCI ships first crude oil cargo as operator
The national oil company's subsidiary loaded its first shipment from the Espoir field on October 31, 2026.
The Ivorian national oil company, PETROCI, shipped its first crude oil cargo on October 31, 2026, three months after taking over operations of the Espoir field. This marks PETROCI CI-26, a subsidiary fully owned by PETROCI Holding, becoming the direct operator of the offshore field near Jacqueville. This operation signifies the state-owned company's transition from a partner to a direct operator in oil asset exploitation.
This first lifting, or crude oil loading for transport, confirms the operational implementation of PETROCI's new role. Previously, PETROCI Holding primarily held stakes in projects managed by international groups, such as the Baleine field operated by Eni. Now, PETROCI directly manages the Espoir field's production, offshore maintenance, and crude oil loading, a responsibility previously held by Canadian Natural Resources (CNR).
The Espoir field, discovered in 1980 and redeveloped for production in February 2002, is now under the direct management of PETROCI CI-26, led by Mabintou Tatiana Cissé. The next steps for PETROCI involve sustaining production, controlling costs, and building national capacity in oil exploitation. The volume of this initial cargo, the buyer, and its destination were not publicly disclosed.
Why it mattersPETROCI's direct operation of the Espoir oil field means the national company is now responsible for production and revenue, rather than just holding shares.