South America's Offshore Oil Boom: New Discoveries Drive Growth

South America’s offshore oil and gas sector is undergoing a transformative phase, with Brazil, Guyana, Argentina, and Suriname spearheading growth. This phase is being powered by new discoveries, advanced extraction technologies and increased foreign investments. These countries are carving niches in the global energy landscape, making the region a key contributor to the world’s energy demands. 

Brazil: A Dominant Player in Offshore Energy Production 

Brazil leads South America's offshore oil and gas industry, driven by its vast ultra-deepwater reserves in the pre-salt layer of the Santos Basin. 

In 2023, the country surpassed 3.4 million barrels of oil per day, with key fields like Tupi and Búzios contributing over 75% of this production. The challenging conditions of the Santos Basin have spurred the use of cutting-edge extraction technologies, solidifying Brazil's position as a global leader in offshore oil production. 

According to Brazil’s 2022–2032 Energy Expansion Plan, national oil output is projected to reach 4.9 million barrels per day by 2032, with pre-salt fields expected to account for nearly 80% of this volume. 

The country’s regulatory framework is highly supportive of foreign investment, attracting major global energy companies. Petrobras, the state-owned energy giant, has pledged $77.3 billion in investments from 2024 to 2029, reinforcing Brazil’s status as a dominant force in offshore oil exploration and production. 

Guyana: Emerging as a High-Growth Market in the Offshore Oil Sector

Guyana is rapidly ascending the ranks of global oil producers, thanks to the Stabroek Block. ExxonMobil’s discoveries in this region are expected to boost the nation’s production to over one million barrels per day by 2027. The burgeoning oil sector is reshaping Guyana’s economy, transitioning it from a developing country into a major player in the global energy market. 

The government’s proactive approach to resource management, coupled with its emphasis on sustainable development, has created an attractive environment for international investments. By balancing economic growth with environmental considerations, Guyana is setting a benchmark for sustainable energy development. 

Argentina: Strengthening Energy Security Through Offshore Investments 

The Vaca Muerta shale formation remains pivotal to Argentina’s energy strategy, offering substantial reserves to meet domestic demand while attracting international investment. Key players like YPF, ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, and Petrobras are fueling growth in both oil and LNG production. Argentina’s commitment to expanding its energy portfolio highlights its focus on long-term energy security and economic stability.

Suriname: Unlocking Untapped Offshore Energy Potential 

Suriname is gradually establishing itself as a notable player in South America’s energy sector. With offshore reserves comparable to neighboring Guyana, Suriname has attracted deepwater investments projected to reach $23 billion by 2031. The government’s revised fiscal regime, which includes a 10-year tax-free period for the Sloanea offshore gas field, has made the country an attractive destination for global investors. 

The efficient management of resources and strategic partnerships are transforming Suriname’s offshore sector into a driver of economic growth. With well-planned investments, Suriname is poised to secure a prominent position in the regional and global energy markets. 

Challenges and Opportunities 

While South America’s offshore oil and gas sector offers promising growth prospects, several challenges remain: 

High Capital Costs: 

The significant upfront investment required for exploration and production can deter potential investors. 

Regulatory Complexity: 

Varying regulations across countries may complicate investment decisions and operations.

Environmental Concerns: 

Balancing resource extraction with environmental sustainability remains a persistent challenge. Additionally, the harsh sea conditions in the region pose a significant obstacle to offshore operations. 

Supply Chain Disruptions: 

South America relies heavily on global suppliers due to limited local manufacturing, except in Brazil. Geopolitical events like the Red Sea crisis and Russia-Ukraine conflict are disrupting supply chains, affecting regional operations. 

Local Content Requirements: 

South America's local content requirements, such as Brazil’s 40% threshold and Mexico’s 25% target by 2025, promote local goods, services, and labor in industries like oil and gas. While posing compliance challenges, they drive economic growth and jobs by encouraging partnerships between foreign firms and local industries. Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago emphasize local manpower and companies in offshore activities. 

Despite these hurdles, technological advancements and robust global energy demand continue to drive investments. Strategic collaboration between governments and energy companies will be key to overcoming these challenges. 

Key Industry Players Shaping the Region 

Major international and national oil companies are actively investing in South America’s offshore sector, including: 

These companies leverage cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches to maximize resource extraction while addressing environmental concerns. 

• TotalEnergies approved the $10.5 billion GranMorgu development offshore Suriname. The project includes constructing an FPSO to process and store 220,000 b/d of oil from the Sapakara and Krabdagu discoveries in Block 58. The FPSO will allow future subsea tiebacks to extend its production plateau, with the first oil expected by 2028. 
• TotalEnergies, in partnership with Apache Corporation, is developing Block 58, with first oil expected by 2025 in Suriname. 
• In Guyana, ExxonMobil's Gas-to-Energy project aims to utilize natural gas from the Liza oil field for domestic power and export natural gas liquids to CARICOM, the Dominican Republic, and Northern Brazil 
• Petrobras' plan to deploy nearly 20 Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessels offshore Brazil by the end of the decade. 
• Petronas Suriname E&P BV, a subsidiary of Petronas, has announced an oil discovery at the Roystonea-1 exploration well in Block 52, located in Suriname, South America. Spanning 4,749 square kilometers, Block 52 lies north of Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, within the promising Suriname-Guyana Basin 

Conclusion 

South America’s offshore oil and gas sector is on a promising trajectory, with Brazil leading the way and countries like Guyana, Argentina, and Suriname offering significant growth opportunities. Through technological innovation, strategic investments, and sustainable practices, these nations are poised to become global energy powerhouses. As they continue to expand their offshore capabilities, South America is set to play an integral role in meeting the world’s energy needs while fostering sustainable economic growth for the future.

Author: Praveen Naidu