When Algeria’s next bidding round finally goes ahead, observers and investors will be watching closely, seeking to gauge the impact that amendments to the hydrocarbons law and the implementation of a controversial windfall tax have had on confidence in the north African state.

Chakib Khelil, the energy minister, had been hoping to hold the round – the country’s seventh – before the end of 2007, but the announcement for pre-qualification applications was only made this month. The government is thought to be offering 15 oil and gas blocks, but further details have not been made public. Mr Khelil has said the government wants to focus on the value bidders offer in terms of expertise, technology and management, as well as the potential for Sonatrach to expand its portfolio globally.