When South Sudan's Ministry of Petroleum announced the resumption of oil production in January 2025, it issued a direct instruction to Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC): restart operations in Blocks 3 and 7 as early as January 8[reference:14]. DPOC, a consortium that includes CNPC, Petronas, Nilepet, Sinopec, and Tri-Ocean, has been at the forefront of the country's oil recovery effort[reference:15].
Blocks 3 and 7: The Heart of South Sudan's Production
Located in Upper Nile State, Blocks 3 and 7 produce Dar Blend crude, a heavy oil with low sulfur content[reference:16]. Before disruptions, these blocks yielded over 200,000 bpd[reference:17]. The current target is 90,000 barrels per day within the first six months of resumed operations, with plans to increase further[reference:18].
DPOC has already drilled 16 wells since operations resumed in October 2025, with 12 already producing[reference:19]. This includes the Al Nahal field, where a single well (W8) produces about 5,440 bpd[reference:20].
Overcoming Technical Challenges
Producing from Blocks 3 and 7 comes with specific technical hurdles. The heavy crude requires careful management of flow assurance, while aging infrastructure needs ongoing maintenance. The government has established a task force comprising the Ministry of Petroleum and JOCs to fast-track maintenance and rehabilitation of key oil fields[reference:21].
Ashier can support DPOC and other operators with:
- Schneider Electric circuit breakers and switchgear for upgrading electrical distribution at well pads and central processing facilities
- Phoenix Contact terminal blocks and surge protection for control system reliability
- 3M electrical tapes and cold shrink terminations for cable repair and installation
- Fluke power quality analyzers to monitor and troubleshoot electrical systems
Looking Ahead
With production in Blocks 3 and 7 now stabilized, the focus is shifting to sustainable growth. New technologies are being deployed to address high water cuts and sand production in oil and gas wells[reference:22]. For engineering and procurement firms, this creates sustained demand for reliable industrial supplies.
Ashier is ready to support DPOC and other petroleum operators in South Sudan. Contact our team to discuss your equipment needs.
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