Mari Energies, Companies Clash Again Over Spinwam Gas Field Licensing Rules

Stakeholders holding gas marketing licenses from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority have raised concerns over the bidding framework for the Spinwam gas field, arguing that it does not align with the decision of the Council of Common Interests.

The concerns resurfaced after Mari Energies held a consultative session on June 17 and extended the bidding deadline to July 2, 2026. Industry participants said the discussions failed to resolve their main objection regarding the eligibility of companies that do not possess an OGRA license at the time of bidding.

Licensed companies argue that allowing unlicensed entities to participate in the tender and obtain approvals later undermines the regulated third party gas marketing framework. They maintain that licensing should be a prerequisite for bidding, as it demonstrates technical capability, financial strength, regulatory compliance, and consumer protection standards.

Industry players, including Pakistan LNG and Natural Gas Supply Company, Ghani Glass, Wellhead, and Universal Gas Distribution Company, said the CCI’s decision permits gas sales only to licensed entities. They warned that allowing unlicensed bidders could delay gas commercialization and create legal complications.

Mari Energies, however, has maintained that an OGRA license cannot be made a pre bidding requirement. The company said it has already communicated this position to OGRA and changing its stance could expose it to litigation.

Mari added that it will assist the successful bidder in obtaining the required license after the bidding process and is prepared to bear the commercial risk if licensing delays prevent timely commercialization. The company noted that the entire 50 million cubic feet per day supply, including 17.5 million cubic feet per day from Spinwam, is currently being delivered to SNGPL on an interim basis.