The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) held talks with Indonesia’s National Energy Company (Pertamina) regarding investment opportunities in Tanzania’s petroleum upstream.

The talks were held recently in Dar es Salaam and Chaired by the Director General of PURA, Eng. Charles Sangweni (first left).

Pertamina's delegation involved senior investment officials. The Ambassador of Indonesia to Tanzania, H.E. Tri Yogo Jatmiko (first right) was also in attendance.

Upon explaining, Eng. Sangweni stated that Tanzania is preparing to launch the fifth licensing round for open petroleum exploration blocks.

"So far we have identified 26 blocks that will be put for auction. Of those blocks, 23 are in deep sea and 3 are in Lake Tanganyika. The auction will be held in March, 2025 in Dar es Salaam during the East African Petroleum Conference and Exhibition (EAPCE'25)" added Sangweni.

Sangweni also used the platform to invite Pertamina to attend the launch event and participate in the bid.

On their part, the Pertamina expressed gratitude for the invitation and promised to participate.

Pertamina already has its presence in Tanzania through its ownership in the Maurel et Prom Exploration Production T (Ltd), the operator of the Mnazi Bay Block located in Mtwara.