Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy and Shell Sign Exploration Contract
The Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan has signed a contract with Shell Kazakhstan for geological exploration works at the Zhanaturmys subsoil area in the Aktobe region.
This was reported by the ministry’s press service.
The contract предусматривает the implementation of a комплекс of preparatory and research activities, including seismic surveys, collection and analysis of geological data, as well as a technical assessment of the field’s potential. All activities will be carried out in accordance with current legislation and after obtaining the necessary approvals from regulatory authorities.
The document was signed by Vice Minister of Energy E. Akbarov and Senior Vice President and Chairman of Shell in Kazakhstan S. Kugan.
“This project contributes to the formation of a long-term hydrocarbon resource base in order to strengthen the country’s energy security and stimulate sustainable economic growth,” said E. Akbarov.
The Zhanaturmys subsoil area:
- is located in one of the country’s promising oil and gas regions;
- covers an area of 1,377 square kilometres;
- according to experts, the territory has significant potential for expanding exploration activities.
As part of the approved work programme, 3D seismic surveys and the drilling of a deep exploration well are planned.
The contract is valid until 2032, reflecting the scale and technological complexity of the project. The work will be carried out under the terms of an enhanced model contract. In addition, Shell has committed to allocate at least 100 million tenge to support the socio-economic development of the region where the subsoil area is located.
“The signing of today’s exploration contract once again confirms Shell’s commitment to long-term cooperation with the Republic of Kazakhstan. Relying on our global experience and advanced technologies, we intend to continue contributing to exploration and the expansion of the country’s resource base,” said S. Kugan.
Currently, 321 contracts related to hydrocarbon exploration and production are in force in Kazakhstan.
In 2026, Kazakhstan plans to include 25 new prospective areas in the state subsoil management programme to increase the country’s natural gas resource potential.
