Enhancing fiscal and licensing efficiency for Africa’s gas sector investment

The gas sector in the Republic of Congo is facing a pivotal moment, as evolving challenges and opportunities require strategic investments and fiscal reforms to remain competitive in the global market. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Jevon Hilder, Senior Business Development Manager at TGS, shared his insights on the future of the gas sector in Congo. The conversation took place at the Congo Energy and Investment Forum, where government officials and industry experts gathered to discuss ways to attract investment and drive growth in the energy sector. Hilder expressed optimism about the government's efforts to attract investment and implement necessary changes to enhance competitiveness. He highlighted the importance of a well-organized approach and the positive messaging coming from the government. One key aspect that Hilder and other industry players are eagerly anticipating is the upcoming licensing round announcement, which is expected to open up new opportunities for investors. When asked about areas for improvement in the licensing process for marginal fields, Hilder emphasized the need for speed in decision-making and consistency in timelines. He noted that investors are drawn to stability and predictability, and maintaining a steady timeline is crucial for building investor confidence. Drawing lessons from countries like Angola, which have successfully improved their fiscal regimes to attract investment, Hilder emphasized the importance of creating an attractive environment for investors. The interview also touched on the competitive landscape in Africa's energy sector, with countries like Nigeria and Angola vying for capital investments. Hilder underscored the need for Congo to adapt quickly to market dynamics and make the necessary changes to remain competitive. He stressed the significance of moving swiftly and offering attractive terms to investors, especially in a market with multiple countries launching licensing rounds. Reflecting on the biggest takeaway from the Congo Energy and Investment Forum, Hilder highlighted the country's strong desire to be a frontrunner in the African energy landscape. He commended Congo's ambition to stimulate investment and leverage its vast energy potential. In terms of driving significant outcomes in the sector, Hilder pointed to the importance of revisiting fiscal terms and exploring opportunities to optimize exploration cost recovery for companies. In conclusion, Hilder's insights shed light on the strategic initiatives needed to enhance fiscal efficiency and attract investment in Congo's gas sector. As the country strives to position itself as a key player in the global energy market, implementing reforms and creating an investor-friendly environment will be crucial for unlocking the full potential of its energy resources.