Ibama Clears Petrobras to Drill Exploratory Well Off Amapá

Overview

• Petrobras says a rig already on location at block FZA-M-059 will begin drilling immediately, with operations expected to last about five months and no oil production in this phase.
• Ibama cites a rigorous review with EIA/RIMA, three public hearings, 65 technical meetings, a pre-operational drill and added spill-response measures, including a new wildlife rehab center in Oiapoque and dedicated fauna-response vessels.
• Environmental organizations and scientists announced court actions challenging the permit, arguing risks to Amazonian marine ecosystems and inconsistency with climate goals ahead of COP30 in Belém.
• Federal officials, industry groups and Amapá’s governor welcomed the move as strategic for energy security and regional development, with local leaders signaling support for additional licenses if exploration proves viable.
• Petrobras’ 2025–2029 plan earmarks roughly US$3 billion for the Equatorial Margin, official studies cite multi‑billion‑barrel potential, and company filings show R$1.3 million paid via Pix for licensing fees.