South Sudan launches first upstream round

South Sudan's energy ministry launched the country’s first oil licensing round June 23, having identified new exploration blocks with potential hydrocarbons. It said about "90% of South Sudan’s oil and gas reserves remain unexplored, providing unprecedented opportunities to international investors." It will make data available to "interested investors, operators and counterparties," it said.

Once the expression of interest process is concluded, the ministry will host a virtual series of data presentations, followed by an international roadshow.

In February last year the country established a transitional government of national unity which then drew up an agreement over the governance of the country’s states.

There are already Chinese and Malaysian companies active in the inland country, which hopes "to welcome back experienced partners and operators following significant progress in returning to peace and stability. With the new data, analysis, and government mechanisms, the ministry seeks to attract high-quality investors and partners," it said.

Three consortiums are operating producing blocks and another four companies have signed production-sharing contracts, it said.