The Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (Sadr) has launched a second oil and gas licensing round for nine blocks in the Western Sahara region, despite the political status of the territory being unresolved.

Six offshore blocks are on offer: Tah (20,892 square kilometres); Amgala (15,417); Farsia (17,381); Jreifia (17,361); Imlili (16,965) and Zug (20,476). The onshore blocks are Smara (29,895 square kilometres), Umdreiga (39,603) and Tichla (14,579). Nine licences were awarded in early 2006 (MEED 31:3:06).

Bids will be opened in Houston in early 2008. Contracts will not come into force before the political status of the area, contested by Sadr and Morocco, is resolved.