Angola has recorded another major step in its oil and gas sector as the brand-new Cabinda Refinery officially begins operations this September 2025. The refinery, located in the oil-rich Cabinda Province, is expected to transform the country’s fuel supply chain by producing 30,000 barrels per day of diesel, jet fuel, naphtha, and heavy fuel oil.
The refinery, backed by a $473 million investment, is part of Angola’s strategy to reduce its heavy dependence on imported refined petroleum products. For many years, despite being one of Africa’s largest crude oil producers, Angola has relied heavily on importing refined products, which has put pressure on its foreign reserves and increased the cost of fuel locally.
By starting full operations, the Cabinda Refinery is expected to cut import costs, save foreign exchange, and provide a strong pathway to energy independence. Government officials and investors describe the project as one of the most significant milestones in Angola’s recent economic reforms aimed at strengthening local refining capacity and ensuring sustainable development.
The project is also a major source of jobs for Angolans. According to figures released by the management, the refinery has already created employment for about 2,800 workers, with 85 percent of the workforce being Angolan citizens. Workers are reported to be receiving a minimum monthly salary of $1,000, a development that has been welcomed by labour unions and local communities.
Industry experts say the refinery will not only secure Angola’s domestic fuel needs but will also position the country as a net exporter of refined petroleum products in the near future. This is expected to improve trade balances, attract more foreign investment, and support industrial growth.
Cabinda Province, often referred to as the “oil capital” of Angola, produces a significant share of the country’s crude oil. However, residents have long complained that despite being an oil-rich region, there has been limited development impact locally. With the Cabinda Refinery now in operation, expectations are high that the economic benefits will directly impact the province, through new jobs, local contracts, and improved social services.
The Angolan government has been pursuing reforms in its petroleum industry over the past few years. President João Lourenço’s administration has pushed for diversification of the economy and greater transparency in oil operations, while also encouraging more private and foreign investment into refining and energy infrastructure. The Cabinda Refinery is seen as a flagship project under this new policy direction.
Energy analysts believe that beyond the immediate benefit of reducing imports, the refinery could also stabilize fuel prices in the country, reduce fuel shortages, and improve supply to different sectors, including transport, agriculture, and power generation. The production of jet fuel will also be critical for Angola’s aviation sector, reducing reliance on imports and cutting operational costs for airlines.
The facility’s production of naphtha and heavy fuel oil will further support industrial operations and open opportunities for regional exports. Neighboring countries with limited refining capacity are expected to benefit from Angola’s new supply potential, boosting regional trade integration.
For Angola, which has faced economic challenges due to fluctuating global oil prices, the Cabinda Refinery represents hope for long-term stability. Economists argue that energy independence will strengthen the country’s fiscal position, reduce inflationary pressures linked to fuel import costs, and ensure more predictable government revenues.
The refinery also comes with broader socio-economic benefits. With thousands of jobs created, better wages for workers, and expanded opportunities for local businesses to provide goods and services, the project is already reshaping livelihoods in Cabinda. Officials insist that beyond oil, the facility will serve as a catalyst for industrial growth, as reliable fuel supply encourages investment in other sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture.
The successful takeoff of the Cabinda Refinery this September marks a turning point in Angola’s economic history. From being a country that exports crude oil but imports refined fuel at high costs, Angola is now moving toward self-sufficiency and regional leadership in petroleum products supply.
As the refinery continues to ramp up operations, both government and industry leaders have promised to ensure transparency, efficiency, and sustainability so that the benefits are fully felt across the economy.
