The project aims to extend the fields lifespan, increase reserves and reverse a decline in production to 9,000 barrels a day (b/d) from 30,000 b/d in 1987. Following the revamp, production is expected to be at least 12,000 b/d. Italys Saipem is responsible for the front-end engineering and design (FEED) package. The client is expected to invite selected companies to submit applications for prequalification by early 2007.

The estimated 24-month engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract calls for: four new wells; the development of existing wells to side-track undrained parts of the reservoir; and a complete review of the artificial lift system. A number of contractors are understood to have expressed interest.

Discovered in the Gulf of Gabes in 1971, Ashtart is the countrys only oil field with proven reserves of more than 100 million barrels. OMV in June 2003 gained an interest as part of its acquisition of the international exploration and production assets of Germanys Preussag Energie International.