Core Viewpoint - Chad's oil industry is betting on Chinese investment to revitalize its sector after the exit of several Western oil giants, with a focus on expanding refining capacity and increasing oil production [1][3][4]. Group 1: Investment and Partnerships - Chinese companies are expanding their oil operations in Chad, particularly in refining projects, as the Chad government seeks to revitalize its oil industry [1][3]. - China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) is set to expand its operations in Chad's oil fields and is advancing plans to build a second refinery in eastern Chad [1][3]. - The existing N'Djamena refinery, which began operations in 2011, is a joint venture where CNPC holds 60% and Chad holds 40% [3]. Group 2: Challenges and Strategic Shifts - Chad's oil industry faces challenges such as the exit of Western partners like ExxonMobil and Chevron due to ownership and tax disputes, leading to a decline in oil production [3][4]. - The Chad government is pushing for the development of 33 new exploration blocks to address the bottleneck in oil field exploration, with a focus on providing security guarantees to investors [3][4]. Group 3: Geopolitical Context - Chad's economic ties with China have deepened, while relations with Western countries have become increasingly strained, highlighted by disputes over asset ownership and military cooperation [4]. - In 2023, Chad nationalized all assets and operations held by ExxonMobil in the country, reflecting a shift towards greater control over its oil resources [4]. Group 4: Economic Development Initiatives - Chad organized a UAE-Chad Trade and Investment Forum to raise funds for its "Chad Connect 2030" development plan, aiming to secure $30 billion for infrastructure investments [5].
“西方退出后,乍得石油工业押注中国”