Two hundred twenty-three wells were drilled in Mexico during 1950, representing an increase of 37.6 per cent over 1949. One hundred, or 44.8 per cent of the total number of wells drilled, were exploratory tests; of these, 43 (43.0 per cent) were completed as producers.

Discoveries made during 1950 included 5 new oil fields, 21 new oil or gas pools, and 17 extensions. These discoveries were made through various methods including reflection-seismograph work, surface and subsurface geology, gravity meter and electrical-resistivity surveys.

Surface geology and geophysical exploration increased from the 1949 level from 202 to 262 party months. Further expansion is scheduled for 1951.

Crude oil and distillate production during 1950 was 72,426,154 barrels--an increase of 11,529,494 barrels over 1949--and the largest amount produced in any year since 1926. Of the total production 96.35 per cent was produced by Petroleos Mexicanos and 3.65 per cent was produced by other operators. Gas production was 62,221,388,000 cubic feet.