ISLAMABAD: Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC), the country’s largest exploration and production company, has secured eight offshore exploration blocks under the Offshore Bid Round 2025, marking a significant expansion of its exploration portfolio.
The Government of Pakistan has officially reopened its offshore energy frontier after nearly two decades through the signing of Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) and Exploration Licences (ELs), aimed at boosting investment and reducing dependence on imported energy.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Petroleum in Islamabad and was witnessed by Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, who described the development as a key milestone in revitalising offshore exploration and strengthening the country’s long-term energy security.
OGDC was represented by Managing Director and CEO Ahmed Hayat Lak along with Head of Exploration Dr. Khalid Amin Khan. Senior officials from the Petroleum Division, joint venture partners, and representatives of Government Holdings Private Limited also attended the event.
Under the Offshore Bid Round 2025, OGDC has been awarded a total of eight offshore blocks, including two as operator and six in partnership with other exploration and production companies. The agreements were formally signed between OGDC and its joint venture partners.
Officials said the reopening of offshore exploration represents a major step toward unlocking untapped hydrocarbon potential and strengthening domestic production capacity. The initiative is expected to enhance long-term energy security by increasing indigenous exploration activity and attracting fresh investment into Pakistan’s upstream sector.
OGDC said the development significantly strengthens its offshore footprint and reflects its continued commitment to advancing domestic energy exploration and reducing reliance on imported fuels.