Licensing Rounds & Investment Framework

Licensing Framework

Angola's petroleum licensing is managed by the ANPG, which conducts regular bidding rounds for open acreage across the country's offshore and onshore basins. The licensing process has been modernized to increase transparency, competition, and investor confidence. Available blocks are offered under the Production Sharing Agreement framework, with terms calibrated to water depth, geological risk, and strategic priority.

Kwanza Basin Opportunities

The success of the Kaminho project has significant implications for future licensing in the Kwanza Basin. MIREMPET Minister Diamantino Azevedo explicitly stated that the Kaminho development "will undoubtedly encourage further exploration investments" in the basin. Open or relinquished acreage adjacent to Block 20/11 could attract new bidders seeking to test the pre-salt play proven by the Cameia and Golfinho discoveries.

Recent Exploration Activity

Exploration momentum is building across Angola's basins. Azule Energy (the Eni-BP joint venture) announced a gas discovery at Gajajeira-01 well in Block 1/14 (July 2025) and plans exploration in the Congo Fan (Block 47) and Namibe Basin (Block 28) in 2026. TotalEnergies continues exploration on Block 20/11 (Grenadier-1) and holds interests in Block 48 (ultra-deepwater). These activities, combined with Kaminho's de-risking of the Kwanza Basin, could catalyze a new wave of licensing and investment.

Bid Evaluation Criteria

ANPG evaluates bids based on multiple criteria including: work program commitments (seismic acquisition, well drilling), financial capability, technical capability and deepwater experience, local content proposals, environmental commitments, and signature bonus offers. Companies with deepwater operational experience in Angola (like TotalEnergies, Eni, and increasingly Petronas) have a competitive advantage given the technical demands of the basin.

For the sector overview, regulatory framework, and investment intelligence, see our dedicated pages.