Mari Energies’ Spinwam gas sale process challenged over licensing requirements

The Organisation for Advancement & Safeguard of Industrial Sector has lodged a complaint with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other authorities against Mari Energies Ltd’s process for selling 35% of its gas share from the Spinwam Gas Field, alleging that unlicensed entities have been allowed to participate, Dawn reported. 

According to the complaint, the bidding terms are inconsistent with the framework approved by the Council of Common, governing third-party gas sales by exploration and production companies.

OASIS said the framework allows exploration and production companies to sell up to 35% of their gas share through a competitive process, but only to third parties holding a valid licence from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).

The organisation alleged that Mari Energies’ advertisement did not require participants to possess an Ogra licence.

Instead, the tender reportedly allows entities registered with tax authorities and included on the Active Taxpayer List to take part in the bidding.

OASIS maintained that tax registration could not replace the licensing requirements prescribed under the regulatory framework.

The complaint said participation by unlicensed entities could weaken regulatory oversight and create commercial rights for parties that were not eligible under Ogra rules. It also alleged that the arrangement could disadvantage licensed companies and create technical, safety and financial risks in the gas sector.

OASIS asked the authorities to declare the advertisement illegal and void and immediately suspend the bidding process.

The organisation also demanded that Mari Energies reissue the tender documents and restrict participation to entities holding valid Ogra licences.

It further sought directions to Ogra to enforce licensing requirements in future third-party gas sales.

The complaint was also forwarded to the army chief, petroleum minister, Ogra chairman and other relevant officials.

OASIS said it may approach the court under Article 199 of the Constitution if corrective action is not taken, seeking to challenge the advertisement and restrain Mari Energies from proceeding with the process.