Sapura Energy’s unit, Sapura Exploration and Production, and its two partners, DEA Deutsche Erdoel Mexico and Premier Oil, outbid six other bidders for this most contested block during the recently concluded shallow water bid round, The Star Online reported.

The report said Block 30, within the Sureste Basin, is a proven and prolific hydrocarbon province in the Gulf of Mexico.

It is located in shallow waters 70m deep, directly to the southwest of Premier’s world-class Zama discovery and to the north of the Amoca oil field.

Sapura E&P entered into the bidding agreement with DEA and Premier, based on an equity split of DEA 40%, Sapura Energy 30% and Premier 30% to bid for the block.

Sapura Energy president and group CEO Shahril Shamsuddin said Sapura Exploration and its partners signed the contract on Wednesday in Mexico City, the report said.

Shahril said this was a significant milestone for Sapura Energy in reinforcing its position in the industry and its presence in Mexico.

Sapura Energy has been operating in Mexico since late 2012 and has worked closely with Pemex on a number of offshore projects.