The New South Atlantic Energy Architecture: Strategic Integration, Refining Economics, and Geopolitical Realignment between Brazil and West Africa

This report analyzes the emergence of a new South Atlantic energy corridor connecting Brazil and West Africa through deepwater oil production, refining integration, maritime logistics, and geopolitical realignment. The study examines the strategic implications of the Dangote Refinery in Nigeria, Petrobras’ renewed offshore expansion into Africa, and the growing role of Brazilian pre-salt crude exports in reshaping Atlantic trade flows. It explores how refining capacity, petrochemical integration, offshore infrastructure, and logistics corridors are transforming the South Atlantic from a traditional export route into a strategic industrial and energy axis. The report also evaluates the geopolitical significance of ZOPACAS, maritime security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea, the industrialization potential of African energy value retention, and the rise of a South-South energy architecture linking Latin America and Africa. Using publicly available data, industry analysis, and strategic foresight methodologies, the publication presents future scenarios for the South Atlantic energy system between 2026 and 2040, including industrial integration, fragmented development, and multipolar transactional dynamics. Topics covered include: Dangote Refinery and refining economics Brazilian pre-salt crude exports Petrobras expansion in Africa South Atlantic logistics corridors Maritime security and geopolitics African industrialization through energy value retention ZOPACAS and South-South cooperation Offshore infrastructure and FPSO systems Future energy trade scenarios (2026–2040)