will award drilling rights to domestic and overseas explorers for a record 57 oil and gas areas as it seeks to boost crude production and lower dependence on imported fuel.
is concerned that crude prices may soar past $150 a barrel, increasing costs and curbing economic growth. Crude oil futures rose to $142.99 on June 27, the highest since trading began in 1983. The South Asian nation is competing with Africa and to attract explorers such as Exxon Mobil Corp. and BP Plc.
Source: Bloomberg