Other: On 14 March 2025, the Government of Niger in Niamey (Ville de Niamey, Niamey) ordered to the Niger-based directors of the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), the West African Oil Pipeline Company (WAPCo) and the Zinder Refining Company (SORAZ) to leave the country within 48 hours. This decision follows the heavy oil shortages affecting Niger since the 6 March 2025. As Oil represents a growing share of Niger's economy, the relationship deterioration between the Government of Niger and the Chinese companies could undermine Niger's revenues and ability to face security threats.

Supply-chain Risk Briefing

1. Summary

The Niger government ordered executives of major oil companies including China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), West African Pipeline Company (WAPCo), and Zinder Refinery Company (SORAZ) to leave the country within 48 hours on March 14. This measure is linked to the severe oil supply shortage that has persisted since March 6, signaling deteriorating relations between the government and oil industry as petroleum's role in Niger's economy grows.

2. Supply-chain impact

• Risk of crude oil production and refining disruption: CNPC and SORAZ expulsion likely to cause disruptions in crude oil production and refinery operations within Niger
• West African petroleum transport network disruption: WAPCo-related measures expected to impact petroleum pipeline operations connecting Nigeria-Benin-Niger
• Deteriorating energy security: Major company expulsions amid existing oil supply shortages projected to intensify Niger's fuel supply instability
• Impact on China-Africa energy cooperation: CNPC expulsion may spread negative effects to China's petroleum investment and development projects in West Africa

3. Watch points

• Alternative supplier acquisition trends: Progress on Niger government's establishment of new petroleum supply partnerships and supply-chain recovery pace
• Regional chain reactions: Whether similar government-foreign company conflicts spread to neighboring countries (Chad, Burkina Faso, etc.) and changes in West African energy hub stability