August 22, 2025 [Further Africa]- Angola’s refining capacity is set for a significant boost as the Cabinda refinery prepares to begin its first phase of operations in September 2025.

The project marks a strategic milestone in the country’s long-term plan to reduce dependency on imported petroleum products and strengthen domestic energy security.

Bridging the Refining Gap

Announced by President Joao Lourenço during an event in Benguela, the facility will initially process 30,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil, with a second phase scheduled to double capacity to 60,000 bpd. Once fully operational, the Cabinda plant will join the 65,000 bpd Luanda refinery as Angola’s second major refining facility.

This expansion is part of the government’s broader strategy to leverage domestic crude resources more efficiently, improve fuel supply stability, and reduce the costs associated with importing refined petroleum. Currently, Angola exports the majority of its crude oil while importing refined products at premium prices—a structure the new refinery aims to reverse.

Economic and Strategic Impact

The Cabinda refinery is expected to enhance Angola’s downstream oil sector by creating jobs, attracting technical expertise, and supporting local supply chains. It will also provide a platform for increased private sector participation in fuel distribution and logistics. By increasing domestic output, Angola stands to reduce foreign exchange pressures linked to fuel imports and bolster trade balances.

The refinery’s location in Cabinda—an oil-rich enclave—positions it strategically for both domestic supply and potential regional exports, particularly to neighbouring countries in Central and West Africa.

With global energy markets shifting toward greater regional self-sufficiency, Angola’s refining expansion signals a strong commitment to industrialisation and value addition. If executed on schedule, the Cabinda refinery could transform Angola from a net fuel importer into a key refined product supplier in the region.