CNOOC sells its Gulf of Mexico oil assets to INEOS Energy

CNOOC Energy Holdings U.S.A. Inc., a subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, transfers its stakes in the Appomattox and Stampede oil fields to INEOS Energy, marking a strategic reorganization of its global portfolio.

Share:

Comprehensive energy news coverage, updated nonstop

Annual subscription

8.25$/month*

*billed annually at 99$/year for the first year then 149,00$/year ​

Unlimited access • Archives included • Professional invoice

OTHER ACCESS OPTIONS

Monthly subscription

Unlimited access • Archives included

5.2$/month*
then 14.90$ per month thereafter

FREE ACCOUNT

3 articles offered per month

FREE

*Prices are excluding VAT, which may vary depending on your location or professional status

Since 2021: 35,000 articles • 150+ analyses per week

CNOOC Limited has announced the signing of a Stock Purchase Agreement (SPA) between its U.S.-based subsidiary, CNOOC Energy Holdings U.S.A. Inc., and a subsidiary of INEOS Energy. This transaction involves the sale of CNOOC’s interests in oil and gas projects located in the Gulf of Mexico. The assets include non-operating stakes in the Appomattox and Stampede fields, two major offshore production sites.

According to Mr. Liu Yongjie, Chairman of CNOOC International Ltd., this sale is part of a strategic effort to optimize the company’s global asset portfolio. The transaction reflects the company’s priorities to align its investments with market trends and long-term profitability goals.

A Strategic Repositioning for CNOOC

CNOOC Limited, a global player in oil and gas exploration and production, is focusing on streamlining its assets. With this divestment, the company continues its optimization strategy, prioritizing projects with the best growth and return prospects.

The Appomattox and Stampede fields, while significant for U.S. energy production, were not deemed strategic assets for CNOOC’s future. This repositioning aligns with a broader industry trend, where companies adjust their portfolios to meet market changes and energy transition requirements.

Partnership with INEOS Energy

INEOS Energy, a subsidiary of the British conglomerate INEOS, is pursuing an expansion strategy in the oil and gas sector by acquiring key assets worldwide. This transaction will allow INEOS to expand its presence in North America while strengthening its portfolio of offshore energy assets.

The transfer process will be overseen by both companies to ensure a smooth transition. The SPA will take effect once regulatory approvals are obtained and agreement terms are satisfied.

The removal of two Brazilian refiners and Petrobras’ pricing offensive reshuffle spot volumes around Santos and Paranaguá, shifting competition ahead of a planned tax increase in early 2026.
Shell Pipeline has awarded Morrison the construction of an elevated oil metering facility at Fourchon Junction, a strategic project to strengthen crude transport capacity in the Gulf of Mexico.
An arrest warrant has been issued against Timipre Sylva over the alleged diversion of public funds intended for a modular refinery. This new case further undermines governance in Nigeria’s oil sector.
With only 35 days of gasoline left, Bulgaria is accelerating measures to secure supply before US sanctions on Lukoil take effect on November 21.
Russia is negotiating the sale of its stake in Serbian oil company NIS as US sanctions threaten the operations of the company, which plays a key role in Serbia’s economy.
TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy and Petronas have signed a production sharing contract to explore the offshore S4 block in Guyana, marking a new step in the country’s opening to operators beyond ExxonMobil.
India boosts crude imports from Angola amid tightening U.S. sanctions on Russia, seeking low-risk legal diversification as scrutiny over cargo origins increases.
The shutdown of Karlshamn-2 removes 335 MW of heavy fuel oil capacity from southern Sweden, exposing the limits of a strategic reserve model approved but inoperative, and increasing pressure on winter supply security.
The Bulgarian government has increased security around Lukoil’s Burgas refinery ahead of a state-led takeover enabled by new legislation designed to circumvent international sanctions.
Faced with US sanctions targeting Lukoil, Bulgaria adopts emergency legislation allowing direct control over the Balkans’ largest refinery to secure its energy supply.
MEG Energy shareholders have overwhelmingly approved the acquisition by Cenovus, marking a critical milestone ahead of the expected transaction closing later in November.
Petrobras reported a net profit of $6 billion in the third quarter, supported by rising production and exports despite declining global oil prices.
Swiss trader Gunvor has withdrawn its $22bn offer to acquire Lukoil’s international assets after the US Treasury announced it would block any related operating licence.
The Trump administration will launch on December 10 a major oil lease sale in the Gulf of Mexico, with a second auction scheduled in Alaska from 2026 as part of its offshore hydrocarbons expansion agenda.
The US group increased its dividend and annual production forecast, but the $1.5bn rise in costs for the Willow project in Alaska is causing concern in the markets.
Canadian producer Saturn Oil & Gas exceeded its production forecast in the third quarter of 2025, driven by a targeted investment strategy, debt reduction and a disciplined shareholder return policy.
Aker Solutions has secured a five-year brownfield maintenance contract extension with ExxonMobil Canada, reinforcing its presence on the East Coast and workforce in Newfoundland and Labrador.
With average oil production of 503,750 barrels per day, Diamondback Energy strengthens its profitability and continues its share buyback and strategic asset divestment programme.
International Petroleum Corporation exceeded its operational targets in the third quarter, strengthened its financial position and brought forward production from its Blackrod project in Canada.
Norwegian firm DNO increases its stake in the developing Verdande field by offloading non-core assets to Aker BP in a cash-free transaction.

All the latest energy news, all the time

Annual subscription

8.25$/month*

*billed annually at 99$/year for the first year then 149,00$/year ​

Unlimited access - Archives included - Pro invoice

Monthly subscription

Unlimited access • Archives included

5.2$/month*
then 14.90$ per month thereafter

*Prices shown are exclusive of VAT, which may vary according to your location or professional status.

Since 2021: 30,000 articles - +150 analyses/week.