S. Sudan boosts oil output by over 5,000 barrels daily

2026-03-25 - 10:53

South Sudan has increased its oil production by more than 5,000 barrels per day, rising from about 95,000 to over 100,000 barrels per day, following the commissioning of a new well in Blocks 3 and 7 in the Upper Nile oil fields. Speaking to the media today in Juba, the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum, Dr. Chol Thon, said the increase was driven by ongoing efforts between the government and its partners to scale up production amid rising global oil prices. Dr. Thon said that the newly commissioned Upper Nile W8 well is currently producing 5,440 barrels per day, with a water cut of just 0.5 percent—significantly lower than the average of over 80 percent recorded in most wells—indicating strong production potential. “The increase of production is very important given the level of prices at the moment, where prices are well above 100 dollars. This is the right time for increase of production to be pursued and for the nation to realize the dividends from their resources,” he said. He revealed that the Ministry has recently held a series of meetings with joint operating companies, including DPOC, GPOC and SPOC, aimed at enhancing production capacity and encouraging further investment in the sector. According to Dr. Thon, global oil prices, currently above 100 US dollars per barrel, present a favorable opportunity for the country to increase output and maximize revenue from its natural resources. He also acknowledged global maritime challenges linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East but assured that South Sudan’s oil exports—mainly destined for China—remain largely unaffected. “Despite the logistical challenges in global maritime caused by the conflict in the Middle East, our exports remain largely unaffected. There will be an increase in proceeds due to rising oil prices, but there are also costs related to production, transportation and global price impacts.” Meanwhile, the President of DPOC, Dr. Ling Zongfa, confirmed that 16 wells have been drilled since October last year, with 12 already operational. He said production has exceeded initial forecasts due to improved technology and intensive drilling practices. “Since last October, 16 wells have been drilled and 12 of them have been commissioned, and the production performance is much better than our forecast,” he said. The Ministry further stated that the increased oil production is expected to boost national revenues, although rising global transport and fuel costs may offset some of the gains. On revenue sharing, Dr. Thon reiterated that allocations include 2 percent for producing states, 3 percent for local communities, and 1 percent for future generations, managed through the Ministry of Finance. He also emphasized that measures are in place to address environmental concerns and ensure compensation for communities affected by oil production activities.