Ten New Oil and Gas Blocks Offered to Investors, Expressions of Interest Open from 1 April

Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has offered 10 new oil and gas block areas, all having undergone in-depth studies. “There are ten (10) potential oil and gas block areas whose studies have been completed by the Geology Agency and LEMIGAS and are opened for prospective investors,” said Laode Sulaeman, Director General of Oil and Gas at the Ministry of ESDM, quoted on the ministry’s official website on Thursday, 5 March 2026. Laode noted that these 10 areas form part of 110 potential oil and gas areas that have been mapped up to February 2026. The ten areas have undergone studies by the Geology Agency and LEMIGAS. The data quality is considered better than areas that have not been studied in detail. “The studies form part of the government’s active role through the Geology Agency and LEMIGAS to improve the quality of oil and gas data so that prospective oil and gas investors are more attracted, especially for exploration,” Laode stated. The government has expressed its commitment to improving the upstream investment climate in oil and gas through new fiscal policies. The fiscal provisions are stated to be more attractive with a 50 per cent split in joint venture agreements (KKKS). Previously, the split ranged from 15 to 30 per cent. The government also provides flexibility in contract types. Contractors under KKKS can choose either cost recovery or gross split. Upstream incentives are prepared to optimise production. Indirect tax exemptions are provided during the exploration period. “The government is increasingly open and actively involved in facilitating speedier licensing and cross-agency bureaucracy. The government also conducts direct exploration with financing from the state budget (including seismic) to reduce exploration risks and encourage investment,” Laode added. Proposals for direct offers or regular auctions for the 10 areas can be submitted to the Directorate General of Oil and Gas from 1 April 2026 to 10 April 2026 at the latest. Documents must be submitted in full and correctly. “In line with the directions of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, we are providing ease and opening opportunities for prospective investors and oil and gas companies with the capability to conduct exploration and exploitation activities in Indonesia,” said Laode.