The Committee on Industry, Trade, Natural Resources, Energy and Environment will hold a hearing session this Friday, February 13, 2026, devoted to two major draft laws in the hydrocarbons sector.
On this occasion, the Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy will be heard regarding draft laws No. 71 and No. 72 of 2025, relating respectively to the amendment of an exploration license and the approval of an exploitation agreement.
Draft Law No. 71 of 2025: Amendment of the “Chaal” License
The first text under review is Draft Law No. 71 of 2025. It concerns the approval of amended Addendum No. 1 to the specific agreement relating to the hydrocarbon exploration permit known as “Chaal.”
This draft law aims to update the contractual framework governing this exploration license and its annexes, in line with the technical and legal developments that have occurred since the initial agreement was signed.
The “Chaal” license is part of the national strategy to revive exploration activities and enhance the development of energy resources, at a time when strengthening energy security and reducing dependence on imports remain key priorities.
Draft Law No. 72 of 2025: Approval of the “Sersina” Exploitation Permit
The second text, Draft Law No. 72 of 2025, concerns the approval of the specific agreement and its annexes relating to the hydrocarbon exploitation permit known as “Sersina.”
Unlike the exploration license, the “Sersina” permit relates to a more advanced stage of the process, namely hydrocarbon exploitation. The adoption of this draft law would provide the legal framework governing extraction and production operations, as well as the financial and technical commitments of the parties involved.
This stage is decisive in the energy value chain, as it paves the way for actual production and revenue generation for the State, in compliance with the provisions of the Hydrocarbons Code.
A Strategic Issue for the Energy Sector
The holding of this hearing on Friday, February 13, 2026, comes at a time when energy issues remain at the heart of national priorities. Discussions within the parliamentary committee are expected to focus in particular on the economic impact, contractual conditions, and environmental safeguards provided for under the two agreements.
The examination of Draft Laws No. 71 and No. 72 of 2025 thus represents a key step in the legislative process, ahead of their possible adoption in plenary session.
Through these two texts, the authorities aim to strengthen the regulatory framework for hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation activities, while ensuring the protection of State interests and the sustainable management of natural resources.
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