The Tupi/Iracema field, located in the pre-salt region of the Santos Basin, has once again reached a production level of 1 million barrels per day. This milestone was first achieved in 2019 and was matched on January 9, 2026.
The increase in output is consistent with Petrobras’ new Business Plan for 2026-2030, which aims to raise oil and gas production by improving reservoir management, boosting production efficiency, enhancing water injection processes, and identifying new opportunities.
“‘We have always believed that Tupi/Iracema could return to previous production levels. This asset is our first giant pre-salt field, with highly productive deposits. Our teams worked hard to ensure the resumption of production at a level matching the magnitude of the field. We are very proud to now operate two giants with potential above 1 million barrels per day: Tupi/Iracema and Búzios, both in the pre-salt of the Santos Basin,’” said Magda Chambriard, president of Petrobras.
In 2025, Petrobras connected eleven new wells at Tupi/Iracema. The field now has more than 150 drilled wells. The company is considering building additional wells and evaluating a possible new platform after 2031 as well as extending the lifespan of some existing platforms. These actions depend on necessary approvals from partners and regulatory authorities.
“‘This return of Tupi/Iracema to producing 1 million barrels per day reinforces that the pre-salt region, over sixteen years, has become one of the most competitive oil frontiers globally and a hub for innovation. It offers a unique combination of giant reserves, high productivity, lower carbon footprint oil, and above-average efficiency,’” said Sylvia Anjos, director of Exploration and Production at Petrobras.
Of Petrobras’ 57 operated production platforms, 28 are located exclusively in the pre-salt area. In January 2025, cumulative output from this region reached seven billion barrels. The largest fields driving this achievement are Tupi/Iracema, Búzios—which is also recognized as the world’s largest deepwater field—and Mero.
Pre-salt operations account for about 80% of Petrobras’ total production. Technological advances made during exploration and development in this previously uncharted geological area have earned international recognition for Petrobras and contributed significant knowledge to offshore industry projects.
Tupi/Iracema is operated by Petrobras in partnership with Shell and Petrogal Brasil; PPSA represents government interests in the shared deposit.
