Turkmenistan has officially launched the fourth phase of development at the giant Galkynysh gas field, marking a major new step in expanding its energy production capacity.

A ceremonial launch was held at the site, kicking off new drilling operations and the construction of a natural gas processing facility, The Caspian Post reports via Turkmen media.

The project is designed to add capacity for processing up to 10 billion cubic meters of commercial gas annually. Officials say the expansion aims to increase production volumes and strengthen the country’s export potential, particularly toward China, a key energy partner.

The new phase is also expected to create additional jobs, expand the capabilities of the national energy sector, and deepen long-term cooperation between Turkmenistan and China in the gas industry.

Earlier, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov approved a decree under which Turkmengaz state energy company signed a contract with CNPC subsidiary CNPC Amudarya Petroleum Company Ltd.

The Galkynysh field is considered one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world, and its phased development remains central to Turkmenistan’s long-term strategy to expand “blue fuel” exports and strengthen its position in global energy markets.