Mozambique upstream progress defies unrest
The east African country continues to attract investment in oil and gas projects, but concerns over security are still impeding developments in the gas-rich north
China's state-controlled Cnooc is seeking to invest in Mozambique for the first time, while Italy’s Eni is looking to expand its portfolio in the troubled east African nation, after both firms submitted bids in Mozambique’s sixth licensing round. Cnooc bid for five blocks: three in the Angoche basin and two in the Save basin, according to Mozambican regulator INP. The Chinese firm is proposing operating the blocks with 70–80pc ownership, with Mozambican NOC ENH holding the remainder. If the bids are successful, they would be Cnooc’s first foray into the country. Eni, meanwhile, bid to operate one block in the Angoche basin with a 60pc stake, with ENH holding the remaining 40pc. INP plans to
Also in this section
23 January 2026
A strategic pivot away from Russian crude in recent weeks tees up the possibility of improved US-India trade relations
23 January 2026
The signing of a deal with a TotalEnergies-led consortium to explore for gas in a block adjoining Israel’s maritime area may breathe new life into the country’s gas ambitions
22 January 2026
As Saudi Arabia pushes mining as a new pillar of its economy, Saudi Aramco is positioning itself at the intersection of hydrocarbons, minerals and industrial policy
22 January 2026
New long-term deal is latest addition to country’s rapidly evolving supply portfolio as it eyes role as regional gas hub






