Bangladesh has opened 26 offshore energy blocks in the Bay of Bengal for international bidding, aiming to attract foreign investment and increase domestic energy production. The announcement was made during the World Energies Summit held in London.

State Minister Anindya Islam Amit highlighted the country’s growing energy needs as the primary motivation behind the offer. The blocks comprise 11 shallow-water and 15 deep-water zones, reflecting a broad scope for exploration and development. Through this move, the government seeks to strengthen domestic gas supplies and broaden the country’s overall energy portfolio.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to secure energy resources by encouraging foreign direct investment in Bangladesh’s upstream sector. By offering these blocks, the government hopes to leverage international expertise and capital to boost exploration and production activities, which are critical as energy consumption continues to rise nationwide.

Details on the bidding process and expected timelines for awarding the blocks were not disclosed during the summit. However, officials emphasized that this effort is aligned with Bangladesh’s long-term energy security plans and economic growth objectives.