Grupo Carso Secures Full Ownership of Ichalkil and Pokoch Offshore Oil Fields in Mexico

Grupo Carso Consolidates Control of Key Mexican Offshore Assets

Carlos Slim's Grupo Carso has announced its decision to acquire the remaining stake held by Lukoil in the Ichalkil and Pokoch offshore oil fields in Mexico. The deal, valued at $270 million for the equity stake, also includes the assumption of approximately $330 million in outstanding debt owed by Lukoil's subsidiary, Fieldwood Mexico, to its parent company. This brings the total value of the transaction to approximately $600 million. The acquisition, announced on January 19, 2026, will grant Grupo Carso 100% ownership and operational control of the shallow-water fields located off the coast of Campeche in the Gulf of Mexico.

Strategic Expansion in Mexico's Energy Sector

This move marks a significant expansion of Grupo Carso's presence in Mexico's upstream hydrocarbon sector. The conglomerate, through its subsidiary Zamajal, had previously acquired the other 50% interest in the fields in June 2024 from Petrobal Upstream Delta 1. With this latest acquisition, Grupo Carso becomes the sole owner and operator of the assets within Contractual Area 4, which spans approximately 58 square kilometers. The transaction aligns with Grupo Carso's strategic diversification into the energy sector, complementing its historical involvement in telecommunications, infrastructure, retail, and construction.

Ichalkil and Pokoch Fields: Production and Potential

The Ichalkil and Pokoch fields are producing conventional oil fields, with production having commenced in late 2021. Current production figures indicate approximately 8,300 barrels of crude oil per day (b/d) and 15 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d) of natural gas. Industry estimates suggest that these fields could reach significant output levels once fully developed, with medium-term targets aiming for 100,000 bopd and 130 MMcf/d of natural gas by 2026. The fields hold reported recoverable reserves of 564 million barrels of oil equivalent, with over 80% being oil.

Regulatory Approvals and Lukoil's Divestment

The completion of the acquisition is contingent upon several regulatory approvals. These include validation from the Mexican government, the National Antitrust Commission, and the Ministry of Energy. Crucially, the deal also requires 'express and specific authorization' from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Lukoil's decision to divest its stake is reportedly influenced by its strategy to sell international assets following the imposition of U.S. sanctions in October/November 2025, as part of broader measures targeting Russia's energy sector.