What specific actions is Harold Hamm and Continental Resources taking to expand in Argentina's Vaca Muerta shale basin?

Harold Hamm’s Continental Resources Inc. is preparing to bid for 15 shale blocks in an upcoming auction managed by Neuquén province—the region holding the lion’s share of Vaca Muerta acreage—with bids scheduled to be opened on August 19; this follows two prior transactions in Argentina: a deal last year to acquire assets from local driller Pluspetrol SA, and a second transaction in January to buy stakes in blocks operated by Pan American Energy Group, which is half-owned by BP Plc.

What broader policy and infrastructure developments are enabling US shale companies like Continental and Chevron to invest in Argentina’s Vaca Muerta?

President Javier Milei’s free-market reforms—introduced after years of restrictive controls—have attracted investment and financing to the Vaca Muerta, and a key export pipeline and port called VMOS is set to be ready next year to enable increased crude production; additionally, Milei’s initiative offering tax cuts and other benefits has prompted Chevron Corp. to develop more acreage there, though its application still awaits Argentine government approval.

Oil Billionaire Hamm Seeks to Expand in Argentina’s Shale Patch

Jul 30, 2026

Continental Resources Inc. plans to bid on shale blocks in Argentina’s Vaca Muerta basin, expanding operations amidst government reforms attracting US producers like Chevron.

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