Kazakhstan is focusing on increasing drilling volumes to replenish its resource base and discover new deposits. The Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan has forecasted that approximately 80 exploratory wells will be drilled this year, with plans to drill 120 wells each in the following two years. This information was presented by Deputy Minister of Energy Erlan Akbarov at the Kazdrilling conference.
The attention of oil and gas companies is directed towards underexplored sedimentary basins. These areas are made available for exploration through a simplified scheme: upon receiving an application, the Ministry of Energy organizes an auction within 10 working days. The subsoil user is required to cover at least 30% of the area with seismic exploration within the first three years, followed by the drilling of exploratory wells.
Participants at the event also discussed the readiness of oil service companies and the further development of the drilling segment in the country. To support the domestic oil service sector, Kazakhstan is localising the production of equipment for drilling rigs. For example, the company ZhigerMunaiService in Atyrau has begun manufacturing drilling bits, calibrators, and other products, as highlighted by Mr Akbarov.
The Ministry of Energy emphasises the need for a drilling services market in Kazakhstan characterised by stable prices and competition among participants, where success is measured not only by drilling meters but also by new geological discoveries, replenishment of reserves, development of domestic production, and the creation of skilled jobs.
