Kazakhstan's Minister of Energy Yerlan Akkenzhenov announced at a government press conference in Ukimet Uyi that 112 subsoil blocks are scheduled to be offered through open electronic auctions for geological exploration in 2026.
What is the scale and historical track record of the electronic auctions?
Energy Minister Akkenzhenov noted that offering 112 blocks within a single year represents a substantial volume, with geological survey and drilling results submitted to the Ministry of Energy for formal evaluation. Between 2023 and 2025, Kazakhstan auctioned a total of 126 blocks. Participants include domestic Kazakh enterprises alongside foreign investors from China and neighboring countries.
What contractual obligations apply to investors?
During auction tenders and subsoil development, Kazakh authorities place special emphasis on statutory compliance and contractual performance. Core obligations cover subsoil geological surveys, drilling programs, increasing local content requirements, domestic procurement of goods and services, and technical training for local specialists.
What is the status of KazMunayGas's deep geological exploration?
Askhat Khasenov, Chairman of the Management Board of NC KazMunayGas JSC, stated that the national operator is carrying out an exploration program covering 47 blocks and 23 projects, with an estimated resource potential of 4.7 billion tons of standard fuel equivalent. The initiative plans 60,000 linear kilometers of seismic surveys, with studies intended to cover deep geological strata down to about 8,000 meters to discover new fields and replenish national reserves.
FAQ
How many exploration blocks are scheduled for auction in 2026?
The Ministry of Energy plans to offer 112 subsoil exploration blocks through open electronic auctions in 2026.
Can Chinese companies participate in the subsoil auctions?
Yes. The Energy Minister confirmed at the press briefing that foreign bidders include investors from China and neighboring countries.
Rules related to this news
What key requirements are imposed on winning bidders?
Regulators focus on verifying investor compliance with commitments regarding geological exploration, drilling, local content targets, domestic procurement, and workforce training.
What depth is KazMunayGas deep geological exploration planned to cover?
KazMunayGas deep geological exploration operations are planned to cover depths of up to 8,000 meters.
Is this news relevant to Chinese companies?
Yes. According to the Ministry of Energy, the Energy Minister highlighted that Chinese investors are actively participating in open electronic auctions for subsoil use.
Related reading
- More industry and policy updates: Kazakhstan investment and project news
- Setting up a project company: Company registration in Kazakhstan
Sources
- Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan (gov.kz), 4 November 2026: https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/energo/press/news/details/1323840?lang=ru