Pakistan has officially resumed offshore oil and gas exploration activities after almost two decades by signing new Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) and Exploration Licences under the Offshore Bid Round 2025.
The agreements cover 23 offshore exploration blocks located in the Indus Basin and Makran Basin, marking a major development for Pakistan’s energy sector and long-term resource exploration strategy.
Major Energy Companies Join Offshore Initiative
According to officials, several leading energy companies are participating in the offshore exploration programme, including:
- Mari Energies Limited
- Oil and Gas Development Company Limited
- Pakistan Petroleum Limited
- United Energy Pakistan
- Prime Global Energies
- Orient Petroleum
Authorities say the initiative is aimed at boosting domestic energy exploration and attracting long-term local and foreign investment into Pakistan’s oil and gas sector.
Initial Investment Could Reach $1 Billion
Government officials estimate that the first exploration phase may involve initial investment of approximately $82 million.
However, total investment could potentially rise to nearly $1 billion if offshore exploration activities progress toward drilling operations and commercial production stages.
Pakistan Aims to Strengthen Energy Security
Officials described the restart of offshore exploration as an important step toward:
- Improving energy security
- Reducing dependence on imported fuel
- Expanding domestic energy resources
- Encouraging foreign investment
- Supporting industrial growth
Pakistan continues to face increasing pressure from rising global energy prices and growing import costs, making local energy development a strategic priority for the economy.
Economic and Employment Benefits Expected
Authorities believe the offshore exploration programme could also create:
- New employment opportunities
- Technical training and expertise development
- Technology transfer in the energy sector
- Increased industrial and infrastructure activity
Energy experts note that offshore exploration projects typically require long-term investment and advanced technology before commercial discoveries can be confirmed.
Offshore Exploration Seen as Major Energy Sector Development
The reopening of offshore oil and gas exploration after nearly 20 years is being viewed as a significant milestone for Pakistan’s energy industry.
Analysts say successful discoveries in the Indus and Makran offshore regions could help improve domestic energy supply, strengthen economic stability, and support Pakistan’s long-term energy independence goals.
