According to sources, the company Uzbekneftegaz and its structural enterprises intend to deliberately reduce the volume of natural gas production in 2026. The total volume is planned to be 22.8 billion cubic meters, which is 9.5% less than the figure from the previous year, which reached 25.2 billion cubic meters.
For the period from January to September, the enterprises have already produced approximately 17 billion cubic meters of gas. Initially, a higher plan of 25.4 billion cubic meters was set for 2026, so before the end of the year, the company will need to produce an additional approximately 5.8 billion cubic meters.
Expansion of geological exploration
To replenish reserves, Uzbekneftegaz will intensify its geological exploration work. Since the beginning of the current year, five new gas fields have been discovered, and 80 wells have been drilled. Additionally, drilling of another 40 wells is planned for the fourth quarter, and the volume of 3D seismic surveys this year is expected to increase fivefold.
Despite the planned reduction in production, the company's financial position shows growth: revenues for the first nine months increased by 22%, and net profit grew by a substantial 150%. 6.9 trillion soums were transferred to the state budget as taxes and other payments.
Previously, the opening of the new Karatau gas condensate field in Karakalpakstan was announced.