On February 27, 2026, Pakistan’s Petroleum Division took a significant step in advancing its domestic energy exploration by awarding licenses for 11 onshore oil and gas blocks. The signing ceremony, held in Islamabad, was attended by Federal Minister for Petroleum, Ali Pervaiz Malik.
The awarded blocks are distributed across the provinces with eight in Balochistan, two in Sindh, and one in Punjab. The joint venture partners include prominent companies such as Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Mari Energies, Pakistan Oilfields Ltd (POL), and Prime Global Energies.
Minister Malik emphasized the agreements as a milestone in reducing Pakistan’s reliance on imported energy and attracting foreign investment. “The agreements demonstrate strong investor confidence in Pakistan’s upstream potential,” he stated, highlighting the potential for job creation and economic stimulation in the awarded regions.
Mari Energies will operate six blocks, securing a 100% working interest in five. PPL will operate the Kalat South block with a 40% interest, partnering with OGDC and Mari Energies. OGDC, the nation’s largest exploration company, will manage several blocks, including Kalat North and Khui-II, with significant stakes in others.
The minimum committed investment by the successful bidders exceeds $31 million over the next three years, with additional commitments to social welfare initiatives totaling over Rs276 million. These developments are expected to foster economic growth and reduce energy import dependency.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 27th, 2026
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