Emerging offshore oil regions in Guyana, Suriname, West Africa, and Namibia are rapidly changing the geography of global oil production. Recent discoveries, policy reforms, and investment momentum are positioning these markets as key sources of growth. As these projects accelerate, they are also transforming expectations for the supply chains that support them, highlighting the importance of finding partners capable of acting as a pipe supplier and an international fittings distributor for critical offshore systems.
These emerging markets signal a shift that includes operational complexity, long-term asset performance, and logistical precision. For operators working thousands of kilometres from established hubs, the success of an offshore project often depends on one essential factor: timely access to high-quality materials that meet offshore performance standards.
South America: Guyana and Suriname
Guyana’s rise has been swift. From first oil in 2019 to over 600,000 barrels per day today, its deepwater fields are being developed at record pace. With multiple FPSOs operating and more on the way, the country is expected to reach 1 million barrels per day within the next few years.
Suriname is on a similar trajectory. The recent green light on its first major deepwater development positions it as South America’s next offshore entrant, with first oil expected by 2028.
These projects demand a new generation of supply chain support. In the deepwater environment, piping systems and mechanical components must be certified, corrosion-resistant, and built for long-term durability, especially during the early years of development when in-country supply options may still be limited.
West Africa: A Regional Reawakening
In West Africa, a new wave of activity is underway. Nigeria is working to restore confidence and capacity through policy reform. Ghana is stabilizing and aiming for renewed growth. Senegal, a newcomer, brought its first FPSO online in 2024. Côte d’Ivoire fast-tracked its largest discovery into production in under two years.
Despite different development stages, these countries face similar technical requirements. Offshore timelines leave little room for error, and delays due to supply issues like wrong specifications, incomplete documentation, or inconsistent quality can derail schedules and increase costs. The need for dependable sourcing and rigorous product standards is consistent across the region.
Namibia: Africa’s Newest Oil Province
Namibia’s 2022–23 deepwater discoveries may place it among the world’s major producers by the 2030s. Yet Namibia currently has no existing oil infrastructure. Everything including FPSOs, flowlines, gas handling, and export terminals, must be built from the ground up.
In such settings, sourcing offshore-grade materials is a vital decision. Early infrastructure projects in Namibia will define the technical and operational standards that future development will follow. The long-term performance of these systems depends on the choices made at the outset.
Why Supply Chain Integrity Matters
Offshore oil and gas projects in new markets face challenges beyond sheer distance. Regulatory complexity, unpredictable weather, and lean installation schedules all magnify the importance of getting materials right the first time. Durable, well-documented, and readily available equipment helps prevent downtime and protect long-term value.
Sourcing shortcuts or inconsistent standards can result in delays, safety concerns, or shortened equipment life. These are risks that carry significant cost implications in hard-to-access environments.
Strategic Partnerships from Day One
For project developers and EPCs working in these geographies, the best time to strengthen the supply chain is before installation begins. Engaging with globally experienced, technically credible suppliers immediately reduces risks in the overall project.
Gerab National Enterprises, for example, has supplied piping systems and components to energy projects across more than 60 countries. With certified offshore inventory, regional warehousing, and a long-standing network of approved manufacturers, it supports complex deployments with precision and consistency.
The expansion of offshore production into new regions underscores a wider shift in how the energy industry approaches infrastructure. Reliable supply partners are supporting these projects and helping to shape their success.
To talk to Gerab about supplying your next project, contact us today.