Call for bids
PDASL will call for Bids to award selected exploration blocks through Petroleum Resources Agreements.
Exploration History
Petroleum Development
Sri Lanka’s offshore basins, the Mannar, Cauvery, and Lanka Basins, represent a significant frontier in the regional energy landscape with an exploration history dates back to the 1960s. A significant milestone achieved in 2011 when exploratory drilling in the Mannar Basin confirmed the presence of natural gas and condensate. These findings underscored the geological prospectivity of the region and paved the way for a more structured, data-driven approach to offshore development.
Why Invest in Sri Lanka?
A strategic combination of location, policy, and untapped resources creates a compelling investment environment.
01
Untapped Hydrocarbon Potential
Sri Lanka’s offshore basins hold significant hydrocarbon potential, offering new opportunities for exploration and investment. With underexplored acreage and a growing technical database, the country is well positioned for future upstream petroleum development.
02
Regulatory Framework
PDASL operates under a clear and transparent regulatory framework that supports responsible exploration, fair licensing, investor confidence, and sustainable petroleum resource development in line with Sri Lanka’s national energy goals.
03
Early Data Access
PDASL provides access to key petroleum datasets, including seismic, gravity, magnetic, and well data. This helps qualified investors and stakeholders evaluate Sri Lanka’s offshore exploration opportunities with confidence.
04
Experienced Business Community
Sri Lanka has an experienced and adaptable business community supported by skilled professionals, technical service providers, and a strong institutional environment, creating a reliable foundation for petroleum-sector partnerships.
05
Strategic Location
Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers a strategic offshore position close to major shipping, trade, and energy routes, making it an attractive destination for regional exploration and upstream investment.
06
Gas Utilization / Strategic Direction
PDASL supports natural gas as part of Sri Lanka’s future energy direction, encouraging cleaner energy use, economic development, and long-term national energy security through responsible resource planning and strategic utilization.
Key Investment Opportunities
Clear Pathway to Licensing
Data Room Access
Interested Investors review/purchase available geological, geophysical and technical petroleum Datasets
Opportunity Evaluation
Investors assess available blocks, licensing conditions, and commercial potential.
Bid Submission
Interested parties submit required documentation in full accordance with official procurement process and submission requirements.
Evaluation and Award
Reviews and evaluates all submissions, then enters into direct negotiations with the preferred bidder under a transparent, regulatory framework.
Agreement and Exploration Licenses
Successful investor executes the Petroleum Resources Agreement and secures the exploration license to initiate petroleum operations.