Since the beginning of 2026, five new gas fields have been discovered in Uzbekistan. This was announced on October 5 at a presentation of oil and gas industry projects attended by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Asia-Plus reported.
The key discovery was the Koratau gas condensate field on the Ustyurt Plateau in Karakalpakstan. According to Uzbekneftegaz, a 4,860-meter-deep exploration well confirmed commercial gas and condensate flow from Lower Jurassic deposits on October 3.
For the first eight months of 2026, gas production in the country amounted to 24.2 billion cubic meters (-16.3% compared to the same period in 2025). Eighty exploratory wells have already been drilled in the regions, and 40 more will be drilled by the end of the year. With these new facilities commissioned, daily production is planned to increase from 66 million to 70 million cubic meters, and Uzbekneftegaz's annual output to 25.4 billion cubic meters.
At the same time, the modernization of the Fergana Oil Refinery has increased diesel production by 30%, bitumen by 60%, and jet fuel by five times. The refinery's capacity utilization will be increased from 40% to 65% by the end of the year.
The transition to ultra-deep drilling (4,000–6,000 meters) in Ustyurt reflects the restructuring of Tashkent's energy strategy:
Energy balance stabilization: A 16.3% drop in production threatens domestic generation. An increase in daily production by 4 million cubic meters is intended to prevent winter shortages.
- Developing complex formations: Accessing Jurassic horizons requires a significant increase in 3D seismic exploration and international drilling technologies.
- Protecting sovereignty: The loss of its export status is forcing Uzbekistan to increase exploration to avoid deep import dependence and maintain industrial growth.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
October 6, 2026