Oil, Gas and Natural Resources

Comprehensive Legal Solutions for the Oil & Gas Sector

The oil and gas industry is a cornerstone of the Indian economy, significantly influencing economic decisions across various sectors. With an increasing demand driven by economic growth and a growing population, the sector has attracted substantial domestic and international investment. The Government of India has adopted progressive policies to meet this demand, including allowing 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in several segments such as natural gas, petroleum products, and refineries. According to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), the total FDI inflows into India’s petroleum and natural gas sector from April 2000 to March 2024 amounted to USD 8.19 billion.

The sector covers a broad spectrum of activities—upstream, midstream, and downstream—which present unique challenges and opportunities ranging from exploration to distribution.

Astrea Legal offers a legal services to address the complexities of the oil and gas industry, providing clients with strategic, compliance-focused solutions at every stage of the value chain.

Key Legal Services for the Oil & Gas Sector

1. Transactional and Strategic Advisory

• Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A): Legal assistance with acquisitions, privatizations, and joint ventures in the oil and gas industry.
• Development Projects: Support for legal aspects of infrastructure and facility development across the oil and gas value chain.
• Privatization and Investments: Consulting on privatization opportunities and structuring investments to ensure optimal compliance with Indian laws and industry practices.

2. Corporate Structuring

• Setting Up Subsidiaries: Guidance for foreign oil companies on establishing wholly-owned subsidiaries in India, ensuring compliance with local regulations and legal frameworks.
• Negotiations and Agreements: Drafting and negotiating key agreements, including:
  • Exploration and Production Sharing Agreements (EPSAs)
  • Gas Transmission Agreements (GTAs)
  • LNG Supply Agreements
  • Pipeline Transportation Contracts
  • Farm-in Agreements

3. Equipment and Operational Contracts

• Drilling Equipment Contracts: Legal support for contracts related to the purchase, leasing, and operation of drilling and exploration equipment.
• Operational Agreements: Advising on contracts concerning operational logistics, including equipment maintenance, leasing, and operational services.

4. Legal Compliance and Litigation

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to Indian environmental, tax, labor, and other sector-specific regulations governing the oil and gas industry.
• Dispute Resolution: Representing clients in litigation or arbitration concerning oil and gas transactions, including contract disputes, regulatory challenges, and other industry-specific issues.

5. Contractual and Financial Consulting

• Agreement Termination: Legal advice on the implications of agreement transfers, terminations, and disputes.
• Negotiations and Financing: Legal support in negotiating terms for project financing, structuring financial transactions, and advising on the legal aspects of project financing and investment structuring.

Astrea Legal provides tailored legal solutions for the oil and gas industry, addressing the dynamic and complex regulatory and operational challenges that businesses face. With expertise in M&A, regulatory compliance, contract negotiation, dispute resolution, and investment structuring, Astrea Legal supports clients in navigating opportunities and overcoming challenges in this ever-evolving sector. From exploration and production to distribution and infrastructure development, Astrea Legal ensures that its clients are equipped with the legal expertise needed to thrive in the competitive oil and gas market.

---