Chinese government holds unconventionals key
The only independent oil and gas operator in China stresses the importance of policy and partnership with Beijing
"The government invited us alongside four heavyweights of the time — all now swallowed by mergers or no longer with us, whereas we are still here. We have done quite well in our niche; we started off in that pack, the pack has gone but we remain." So says Randeep Grewal, chief executive of G3 Exploration, operator and developer of eight Chinese coal-bed methane (CBM) licences, of his firm's journey that started with its first licence in 1997. Grewal spoke to Petroleum Economist at the end of February, identifying a number of drivers for G3's longevity, not least patience and luck. But he stresses that the commitment of the Chinese government to unconventional gas resources in general, and CB
Also in this section
4 December 2025
Time is running out for Lukoil and Rosneft to divest international assets that will be mostly rendered useless to them when the US sanctions deadline arrives in mid-December
3 December 2025
Aramco’s pursuit of $30b in US gas partnerships marks a strategic pivot. The US gains capital and certainty; Saudi Arabia gains access, flexibility and a new export future
2 December 2025
The interplay between OPEC+, China and the US will define oil markets throughout 2026
1 December 2025
The North African producer’s first bidding round in almost two decades is an important milestone but the recent extension suggests a degree of trepidation
