Pakistan Sets Eye on PTV and PBC Digitisation
June 14, 2026
Pakistan has awarded 24 offshore exploration blocks and is expected to attract more than $1 billion in investment in its exploration and production sector during FY2025-26. The development reflects growing investor confidence and supports efforts to strengthen domestic energy production.
Pakistan is making a renewed push to explore its offshore energy resources. By opening new exploration opportunities and attracting foreign investors, the government hopes to increase local energy production and reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuel.
During the presentation of the Federal Budget 2026-27, Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted major developments in the oil and gas sector, including the award of 24 offshore exploration blocks to local and international energy companies. The licensing round represents one of the most significant offshore initiatives undertaken by Pakistan in recent years and signals renewed interest in the country’s energy prospects.
The announcement comes at a time when Pakistan continues to face growing energy demand and rising costs associated with fuel imports. Expanding domestic production has become increasingly important for reducing pressure on foreign exchange reserves and improving energy self-sufficiency.
Investor confidence in the sector also appears to be strengthening. The government expects exploration and production activities to attract more than $1 billion in investment during FY2025-26, reflecting increased participation from both domestic and international players seeking opportunities in Pakistan’s hydrocarbon sector.
One of the notable entrants is Türkiye’s state-owned energy company, TPAO, which has joined offshore exploration efforts through partnerships with Pakistani firms. The collaboration could open doors for knowledge transfer, advanced exploration technologies, and deeper energy cooperation between the two countries.
The momentum is not limited to offshore licensing. Pakistan reported 17 new oil and gas discoveries during the fiscal year, highlighting continued exploration success across the country. Combined with production enhancement measures at existing fields, these developments are expected to increase local supplies of both natural gas and crude oil.
For policymakers, the objective extends beyond boosting production figures. Greater domestic output can help reduce reliance on imported fuels, strengthen energy security, and support industrial activity by ensuring more reliable access to energy resources.
As Pakistan seeks to attract foreign investment and diversify its energy portfolio, the latest exploration milestones suggest the country is positioning itself as a more active destination for regional energy development. The success of these projects could play an important role in shaping Pakistan’s energy landscape over the coming years.
