Mauritania Adopts Decree to Regulate Gas Flaring

Mauritania has adopted a draft decree establishing rules on gas flaring and venting, authorities announced following the Council of Ministers meeting in June. The decree follows Hydrocarbons Law 2010-033, which prohibits flaring except under specific exemptions.

The decree bans gas flaring and venting, allowing exceptions only in emergency situations or operations defined in environmental impact assessments and environmental management programs. Exemptions are subject to approval by the competent authority, which must validate the specific conditions under which they may be applied.

Mauritania became a gas-producing country in December 2024, following the start of production at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) field, located offshore on the maritime border with Senegal. The project is operated by oil major bp in partnership with Kosmos Energy and national oil companies from both Mauritania (SMH) and Senegal (Petrosen).

GTA is one of the largest deepwater gas developments in Africa and is expected to play a key role in regional energy security. The project targets approximately 15 trillion cubic feet of recoverable gas.