The executive director of the Association Roman Opimakh said to the Priamyi channel:

«Today, the only way to receive special permits is through auctions. The government has begun preparations for the international oil and gas licensing rounds. This is a complicated process - it requires understandable standards by foreign investors. Now, together with the State Geological Survey, we are preparing a list of prospecting blocks that will be proposed for development and we expect the first round will take place in October».

Also, Roman Opimakh spoke about important reforms that were introduced for the development of the industry: a new fiscal regime, and deregulation of permitting system for gas producers.

The full interview is available here https://goo.gl/tbCid7