Petrobras announced the discovery of high-quality crude oil in the pre-salt layer of the Marlim Sul field, located approximately 113 kilometers off the coast of Rio de Janeiro in the Campos Basin. The find reinforces Petrobras’ strategic focus on replenishing reserves in mature offshore areas, underpinning Brazil’s prospects to become a top global oil exporter by 2030.
The discovery was made in exploratory well 3-BRSA-1397-RJS, drilled in a water depth of 1,178 meters within a complex geological formation beneath a two-kilometer salt layer. Petrobras confirmed the presence of oil through electrical logging, gas indicators, and fluid sampling. Extracted samples will undergo comprehensive laboratory analysis to characterize reservoir conditions and fluid properties, crucial for evaluating the development potential of the site. Marlim Sul, originally discovered in 1987, remains a core asset for Petrobras, which holds a 100% operating stake. Located in the Campos Basin—the nation’s second-largest pre-salt producing region after the Santos Basin—the field currently contributes about 7% to Brazil’s pre-salt output. Petrobras already extracts 4.12 million barrels per day from pre-salt deposits, representing nearly 80% of Brazil’s total crude production.
With Brazil ranked as the world’s seventh-largest hydrocarbon producer and having set a production record averaging 4.89 million barrels of oil and gas equivalent per day in 2025, this new discovery supports continued expansion of its offshore portfolio. Petrobras adheres to strict safety and environmental standards during offshore operations. The company’s ongoing efforts to secure reserves in mature basins align with national energy security priorities amid a broader energy transition.
This latest find highlights Brazil’s significant pre-salt reserves as a cornerstone for economic growth and energy independence, ensuring Petrobras’ capacity to meet domestic demand and international export opportunities. The reinforced production potential at Marlim Sul may also help Petrobras sustain operational output levels while navigating environmental and social debates surrounding offshore exploration.
