The Iranian Offshore Oil Company (IOOC) has invited contractors to prequalify for a tender to build two wellhead platforms connected to the Abouzar oil field.

The state-run firm says companies must prequalify by 27 September for the contract.

The field is 75 kilometres west of Kharg Island and produces about 200,000 barrels a day (b/d) of oil.

The Iranian oil firm is revamping some of the ageing infrastructure at the field.

According to a company report released in 2008, 40 wells out of 107, are too old for production.

The local Petropars has previously shown interest in developing the field.