BOL and IOCs Clash Over Oil Supply Mandate

International oil companies (IOCs) operating in the country have opposed the Botswana Oil Limited (BOL) 90% import mandate, introduced in 2024. The policy reserves 90% of oil imports for BOL, which then sells to IOCs. IOCs argue the mandate increases supply risks and limits their business control.

The mandate aims to empower citizens in the oil industry and strengthen downstream logistics linkages. Despite these goals, IOCs have pushed back, citing potential disruptions to their operations and increased exposure to supply risks.

The conflict highlights tensions between BOL and IOCs over control and operational flexibility. IOCs, including major global players, have expressed concerns about the mandate’s impact on their business strategies and supply chain stability.