On 12 June 2020, the Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM) officially announced the contract signature for the Mesorif reconnaissance licence with ConocoPhillips Morocco Ventures Ltd (ConocoPhillips), marking the Company's return to Morocco after more than fifteen years of absence in the country's E&P industry. The 23,000 sqkm block is located in the South Rifan Trough (Rharb-Prerif Basin) and will be operated by ConocoPhillips with 75% working interest, partnering ONHYM with carried 25%. The main commitments of the two years contract will consist of the achievement of geological and geophysical studies in the first year and the acquisition of 2D seismic data during the second year of the licence.   The area is a prolific one comprising more than 6,000 m of Mesozoic and Cenozoic sediments, proven source rocks in the Lower Jurassic and Upper Cretaceous, and Middle â Upper Jurassic reservoirs considered as main in the Mesorif geological province. Additional potential is anticipated in plays similar to the producing ones (during the '30s â '50s) and in yet untested old salt structures, sub-thrust and over-thrust traps.  Phillips drilled some onshore and offshore wells in the area back in the '80s.
Morocco, ConocoPhillips Company awarded Mesorif reconnaissance contract, onshore Morocco.