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A promising new discovery of hydrocarbons has been made within the "Fatima" upper salt structure at the Kashagan oil field, signaling a potential new chapter for Kazakhstan's vital oil industry.

New Hope from "Fatima"

The announcement came from NCOC, the operator of the Kashagan field, during the "ATYRAUGEO-2026" geological conference held in Atyrau. Exploratory drilling in the "Fatima" structure confirmed the presence of valuable hydrocarbons. Industry experts consider this structure to be the most promising upper salt formation identified at Kashagan to date.

Projects for the Future

This discovery arrives as other significant projects at Kashagan are progressing. Construction has already begun on a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fractionation plant. This initiative, overseen by QazaqGaz and executed by NCOC contractors, aims to stabilize the domestic gas supply and alleviate fuel shortages within the country.

Ongoing Contracts and Disputes

However, the development of the Kashagan field is not without its complexities. Relations between the field's shareholders and the state have faced challenges. In 2023, the government excluded investors from the "Kairan" and "Aqtóty" fields due to their alleged failure to develop these resources, a decision the investors may contest legally.

Furthermore, NCOC is involved in a substantial legal dispute with the state. The government has imposed a fine of 2.3 trillion tenge for alleged environmental violations. Additionally, approximately $155 billion is being claimed based on terms within the production sharing agreement, which could allow investors to receive up to 98% of profits under certain conditions.

This new discovery at "Fatima" offers a glimmer of optimism amidst these ongoing challenges, potentially injecting renewed vigor into Kazakhstan's energy sector.

Бұл туралы orda.kz ақпарат агенттігі хабарлайды.