Governance and Growth in Suriname’s Energy Future

Suriname is entering a major transformation following significant offshore discoveries. How is the Government positioning the country to attract investment while ensuring responsible and efficient development of the energy industry?

Suriname has been producing oil and gas for almost 40 years, both through our national company and in partnership with international investors. We have a track record of honouring agreements and doing business in a predictable way. As the industry scales, our approach is to keep the investment climate competitive while strengthening governance, regulatory clarity and environmental oversight. We want investors to move with confidence, and we want development to be responsible, safe and aligned with long‑term national benefit.

From an investor perspective, what should companies understand about the role of Staatsolie and how Suriname works with international operators?

Staatsolie remains central to the sector. It is the state energy company and a key partner across the value chain, with decades of experience in upstream and downstream operations. At the same time, Suriname welcomes leading international operators and service companies. The presence of major international oil companies in our basin reflects confidence in the geology and in the way Suriname has engaged partners. We intend to continue that same concept as activity expands.

With first oil expected later this decade, what are your immediate priorities to ensure the sector delivers broad-based value rather than becoming an isolated enclave economy?

Our priorities are to build national capability, strengthen institutions and plan for the broader economic effects that come with a new oil province. That includes infrastructure planning, safety and environmental management, and making sure local businesses and workers can participate meaningfully. We also want to ensure that revenues are managed in a disciplined way so they support development objectives and do not create macroeconomic instability.

Local content is a major focus across new energy provinces. How is Suriname approaching local content and workforce development in a practical and measurable way?

Local content has to be planned with data and realism. The starting point is understanding what skills and services are required, when they are required, and in what numbers. Once you have that data set, you can build a local content strategy that is targeted, including education and training adaptations. The objective is not only to set targets, but to create a pipeline so Surinamese talent and companies can meet industry standards and compete for work.

How are you balancing the pace of development with environmental responsibilities, especially as international expectations on ESG and compliance continue to rise?

Environmental stewardship is not optional. Strong standards protect people, projects and investment. As development accelerates, we are focused on clear rules, robust oversight and continuous engagement with operators so environmental and safety requirements are implemented from the start. International expectations are rising, and Suriname intends to remain aligned with best practice, including monitoring, reporting and responsible management of impacts.

Gas-to-power and regional infrastructure are often discussed as strategic enablers. What opportunities do you see for gas development and cross-border collaboration?

Gas can be a significant opportunity for industrial development and for improving the efficiency of our energy system. We are exploring options for how gas resources can be monetised, including through power generation and regional infrastructure solutions where they make commercial sense. Cross‑border collaboration can also help unlock scale, reduce risk and improve the investment case for infrastructure, provided the technical and commercial frameworks are sound.

What message would you like to share with international investors considering Suriname today?

Suriname is open for business and is approaching this new phase with seriousness. We have experience in the sector, we are committed to predictable partnerships, and we are focused on building the frameworks that support responsible development. For investors, there are opportunities across exploration and production, services, infrastructure and the industries that will grow around the energy value chain. We welcome partners who bring expertise, long‑term commitment and high standards.

Read the full Suriname Report here