API and Instituto Mexicano del Petróleo Sign MOU to Strengthen Technical Cooperation

MEXICO CITY, August 14, 2026 - The American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Instituto Mexicano del Petróleo (IMP) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) establishing a framework for expanded cooperation on industry standards, workforce development, technical knowledge sharing and other areas supporting safe, reliable and sustainable energy development in Mexico.

The agreement brings together the complementary strengths of two organizations with deep technical expertise and extensive experience supporting the energy industry.

API offers its portfolio of more than 800 globally recognized standards, certification and training programs, and more than 100 years of experience developing technical solutions for the oil and natural gas industry. IMP, a public research center with decades of experience supporting Mexico's energy sector, contributes extensive research capabilities, technical expertise and deep knowledge of the country's energy industry.

"While API brings globally recognized standards and industry expertise, IMP, as a public research center, contributes deep research capabilities, technological expertise and specialized knowledge of Mexico's hydrocarbons sector," API Senior Vice President of Global Industry Services Anchal Liddar said. "Together these complementary strengths create a powerful platform for knowledge transfer and joint technical collaboration."

"This alliance serves as a key driver for industrial development, the energy transition, and the advancement of national content," IMP General Director Dr. Elizabeth Mar said. "Training and certifying the national supply chain under API standards, in collaboration with IMP, will enable Mexican companies to enhance their competitiveness."

Under the MOU, key objectives include strengthening cooperation on standards by reviewing and technically validating Spanish translations, exchanging information on regulatory development and recommended practices, and supporting the participation of IMP specialists in API committees responsible for standards development.

The collaboration also includes exploring opportunities in areas such as methane emissions, carbon capture and storage, energy transition and offshore pipeline safety, while fostering talent development through training, certification and instructor development programs. Both institutions will explore the possibility of IMP becoming an API-approved training provider.

To translate the agreement into tangible outcomes, the organizations have established a work plan focused on four pillars: standards; training and certification; research, innovation and standardization; and regulatory monitoring and information exchange.

"The work plan is designed to translate these areas of collaboration into concrete actions that strengthen technical expertise, support talent development and promote knowledge exchange between the two institutions," IMP Acting Director of Technology Commercialization Sergio Sánchez Morril said.

Through the agreement, API and IMP aim to strengthen Mexico's energy industry by combining API's international experience in standards and industry best practices with IMP's scientific, technological and workforce development expertise. This will help support stronger national capabilities and industry competitiveness while advancing safer, more reliable, efficient and sustainable energy operations.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) represents all segments of America's oil and natural gas industry, supporting nearly 11 million U.S. jobs. With approximately 600 members, API companies produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation's energy. Founded in 1919, API has developed over 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Founded in 1965, the Mexican Petroleum Institute (Instituto Mexicano del Petróleo - IMP) is the premier public research center and technology provider for the energy industry in Mexico. The IMP delivers cutting-edge scientific solutions, specialized engineering services, advanced technical training, and patented technologies that optimize the entire hydrocarbons value chain. As a strategic technological partner, the institute drives operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and innovation across exploration, production, and refining sectors. For more information, visit the official IMP website.

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