Authorities are planning to call for bids for new petroleum exploration and production licences in the Gulf of Thailand this April after a delay of 15 years, according to the Department of Mineral Fuels.
The licences, to be granted under the 24th round of auctions covering three offshore areas, does not include the Erawan and Bongkot gas blocks, where rights to petroleum exploration and production only change hands for new operators.
Department chief Sarawut Kaewtathip said he is waiting for final approval from Energy Minister Supattanapong Punmeechaow in order to start the bidding.
