Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on major projects in the oil and gas sector, the implementation of previously adopted decisions, and plans to increase gas production and improve the efficiency of enterprises.
Two resolutions aimed at improving the operations of Uzbekneftegaz JSC and addressing issues related to procurement and production were adopted this year. The presentation reviewed their implementation, natural gas production figures and measures planned through the end of the year.
One of the priorities remains expanding geological exploration to increase gas reserves. In 2026, the volume of three-dimensional seismic surveys is planned to increase fivefold compared with last year.
Since the beginning of the year, five new gas fields have been discovered in the country. A total of 80 wells have been drilled in the regions, including deep wells reaching 6,000 metres or more. Another 40 wells are planned to be drilled in the fourth quarter.
The presentation also examined prospects for exploring new areas, primarily deep-lying formations in Ustyurt, developing fields and improving the efficiency of existing wells.
This will involve further improving drilling operations and introducing modern technologies. In Ustyurt, projects are being implemented jointly with foreign partners to drill new wells, reanalyse geophysical data and increase the efficiency of natural gas production.
A separate section of the presentation focused on the financial performance of Uzbekneftegaz JSC and its major enterprises. Over the first nine months, their combined net profit increased compared with the same period last year.
Optimisation of the loan portfolio helped reduce debt. The revision of terms for loans with high interest rates also contributed to lower servicing costs.
The presentation reviewed projects to increase the capacity of the gas transportation system. They include the construction of new main gas pipelines and modernisation of compressor stations.
The implementation of these projects, including the use of modern electric motors at certain stations, is expected to improve the stability of supplies and save up to 125 million cubic metres of natural gas annually. Sources of financing for the relevant projects were also discussed.
Particular attention was paid to eliminating the accident at the 25 Years of Independence field. A specialised Chinese company has been engaged to carry out the work. Special machinery and equipment are being delivered to the site, while preparations are under way for drilling sites.
Particular attention is being paid to compliance with safety requirements during all operations to eliminate the accident.
The presentation also covered the results of efforts to increase production and restore the financial health of the Fergana Oil Refinery.
Following repairs to the main technological units, diesel fuel production at the plant increased by 30%, bitumen production by 60%, and jet fuel production fivefold.
Further measures are being taken to improve the efficiency of the Fergana Oil Refinery by ensuring stable supplies of raw materials, making more effective use of existing capacities and reducing debt. By the end of the year, the plant’s utilisation rate is planned to increase from 40% to 65%, after which the figure is expected to rise further.
Following the presentation, the head of state instructed responsible officials to improve the effectiveness of geological exploration and drilling operations, ensure the implementation of major projects based on detailed calculations and identified sources of financing, and increase the efficiency of enterprises in the oil and gas sector.
