South Sudan has set a target of increasing crude oil
production to 75,000 barrels per day by the end of 2026, following a rise in
output at the country’s largest oil-producing consortium.
The target follows the Greater Pioneer Operating Company’s
(GPOC) record production of more than 60,000 barrels per day, up from 44,000
barrels per day.
The office of the president said on Wednesday that the
output marked the company’s highest level since 2005.
“Today is a day of recognition for outstanding achievement.
Our next target is 75,000 barrels per day by the end of this year,” Petroleum
Undersecretary Santino Ayuel Longar said on Thursday.
“We want to appreciate Mr. He Yanhui for his work, tireless
effort to mobilize the team and employing new technology to ensure that oil
production increases,” he added.
GPOC President He Yanhui welcomed the recognition and said
the company will keep improving efficiency and expanding output to meet the new
target.
In April, the Ministry of Finance and Planning formed a
committee to review crude oil sales and marketing to improve transparency and
accountability.
The committee is expected to submit its findings within 90
working days, with a possible extension.
South Sudan’s oil sector remains the country’s main source
of foreign exchange and government revenue, despite infrastructure challenges
and export disruptions.
The country exports crude oil through pipelines running across Sudan to Red Sea terminals, making it vulnerable to transit disputes and political tensions.