Mexico will delay until June 19 the announcement of winners for the next phase of its oil and gas sector opening, to allow more companies to take part and to incorporate modifications suggested by industry, the country's finance ministry said on Dec. 22.

"The adjustments meet Mexico's interest to guarantee greater involvement of companies in this auction," the ministry said in a statement. "The adjustments also include the recommendations of industry aimed at increasing competition and investment."

Mexico planned to announce the winners of the first phase of the so-called Round Two tender, which includes 15 shallow-water areas in the Gulf of Mexico, on March 22.

Earlier this month, Mexico auctioned off various deepwater oil fields to investors from around the world, part of its drive to bring private sector capital into the industry.