Petrobras expects to begin new drilling operations in the Foz do Amazonas basin only by 2027, following the receipt of permits from Ibama. The company is working to balance the replenishment of its oil reserves with regulatory challenges and cost optimization in mature fields.
Oil exploration in Brazil’s new frontiers continues to move forward with caution and under strict environmental oversight. Petrobras, the state-controlled energy giant, has announced that its next drilling activities in the strategic Foz do Amazonas region are not expected to begin until 2027.
This timeline follows the recent granting of licenses by the Brazilian Institute of the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama) for the exploration of three wells adjacent to the existing Morpho well.
The delay in launching these activities highlights the complexity and the lengthy environmental licensing process for large-scale projects in sensitive areas. Although the permit marks a significant step forward, the company is preparing for logistical hurdles, including the mobilization of a new rig to the region, reflecting its commitment to meeting regulatory requirements.
Progress in Foz do Amazonas, but with Caution
Petrobras‘ Director of Exploration and Production, Sylvia Anjos, indicated that drilling for the contingent wells is scheduled to start in early 2027. Ibama‘s requirements stipulate that each well must be drilled sequentially, meaning operations cannot take place simultaneously.
This condition reinforces the need for careful planning and adherence to best environmental practices for exploration in the area.
Petrobras‘ journey in the Foz do Amazonas has been marked by a decade of efforts in environmental licensing, culminating in the start of activities in October 2025. The company maintains strategic partnerships, such as its venture with ExxonMobil in nine exploration blocks in the region, acquired during the 5th Cycle of the Permanent Offer (OPC) held by the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) in 2025.
Multi-Client Seismic Surveys Boost the Region
While Petrobras coordinates its next steps, the energy sector in the Foz do Amazonas is seeing other significant activity. Chevron, for instance, is set to begin a multi-client seismic survey in the same area.
According to Kevin MacLachlan, Chevron‘s Vice President of Global Exploration, the work—to be conducted by SLB and Shearwater—will involve collecting high-quality 3D seismic data in a region about 130 kilometers from the Morpho well.
This survey is expected to last 16 months and will provide essential data for several companies holding blocks in the region, including Chevron, which acquired nine blocks in partnership with China’s CNPC Brasil during the same ANP auction in June 2025.
The Challenge of Reserve Replacement and Campos Basin Optimization
The discussion regarding new frontiers aligns with Petrobras‘ challenge of replenishing its oil reserves. Sylvia Anjos highlighted the slow pace of the permitting process, which is essential for ongoing exploration and production. She emphasized the importance of securing new reserves for Brazil’s energy future.
Sylvia Anjos stated:
“We have several blocks in Brazil. But the licensing process has been slow. Even with Exxon, we have more than ten blocks; therefore, we need environmental permits and we need to replenish reserves.”
At the same time, the company is focused on optimizing production in mature fields, such as the Campos Basin. Despite natural decline, strategies such as utilizing existing infrastructure, developing more cost-effective platforms, and implementing “adequate regulation” by the ANP are seen as crucial to extending the lifespan and productivity of the region.
Petrobras is working to dispel the notion that only the high-productivity pre-salt justifies heavy investment, advocating for the need for more accessible solutions for smaller accumulations.
Perspectives for Brazil’s Energy Future
The projection for the start of drilling in the Foz do Amazonas by 2027 and the hurdles of environmental licensing reiterate the complexity of the energy sector in Brazil. Petrobras is navigating the need to expand its oil reserves in new frontiers while optimizing mature fields, all under the scrutiny of regulatory bodies such as Ibama and the ANP.
The outlook points to a future where sustainability and cost-efficiency will be determining factors for the success of oil and gas exploration and production. The industry is looking to balance resource utilization with environmental responsibility, ensuring the country’s energy supply and the long-term viability of investments in the sector.
