Tensions between the industry and Gabons oil ministry come as a number of African countries attempt to wrest better terms from foreign multinationals and clamp down on transfer pricing and tax evasion.
Etienne Ngoubou, oil minister, told the Financial Times the government plans to reclaim the main onshore site of Chinas Addax Petroleum, the Tsiengui field, when the contract comes up for renewal in 2015, due to alleged breaches of contract.
Mr Ngoubou said the state had informed two other oil companies they faced similar action. There will be a partial reclamation of assets, he said. The companies have realised we have proof of irregularities. [They] have recognised their fault. The minister refused to identify the oil companies. It is understood that neither Total Gabon nor Shell Gabon are being targeted.
