Algeria Opens Seven Oil and Gas Blocks to Investors in New Licensing Round Starting April 19
The government of Algeria will launch a new international oil and gas licensing round on April 19, offering seven exploration blocks to energy companies as part of efforts to attract investment and expand activity in its upstream sector.
The announcement was made by the National Agency for the Valorisation of Hydrocarbon Resources, the country’s official oil and gas licensing authority, in a statement released on Wednesday.
ALNAFT, which oversees and promotes Algeria’s upstream licensing activities, said the upcoming bid round forms part of a broader national strategy to develop and maximize the value of the country’s hydrocarbon resources while strengthening partnerships with international energy companies.
“The new round represents a structural step in implementing the national strategy for the valorisation of hydrocarbon resources,” the agency said.
Seven Exploration Blocks on Offer
According to ALNAFT, the seven exploration blocks will be offered in accordance with Algeria’s petroleum legislation and international standards governing transparency and competitiveness in oil and gas licensing.
The agency emphasized that the bid round will provide an open and competitive framework through which oil and gas companies can apply for exploration rights under clearly defined investment terms.
“The international bid round is an open mechanism that allows companies to submit bids within a clear, fair, and investment-friendly framework,” ALNAFT stated.
Strategy to Attract Foreign Investment
In recent years, Algeria has intensified efforts to attract foreign investment into its oil and gas sector, particularly following reforms to its hydrocarbon law designed to improve fiscal terms and enhance the competitiveness of exploration projects.
ALNAFT said the new licensing round reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, sustainable resource development, and long-term partnerships with global energy companies.
During the previous Algeria Bid Round 2024, five of the six exploration blocks offered were awarded to companies from countries including France, Qatar, Italy, Thailand, China, and Austria, demonstrating sustained international interest in Algeria’s energy resources.
The upcoming licensing round is expected to attract further participation from global oil and gas companies seeking to expand exploration activities in North Africa, as Algeria works to increase production, grow reserves, and strengthen its position in international energy markets.
