The news comes amid rumours that Malaysia's Petronas could abandon the project.

YPF is in talks with major multinationals to become partners in its liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project, amid rumours that Malaysia's Petronas could abandon the project.

"Petronas has to decide at the end of December whether to continue or not," YPF CEO Horacio Marín said in a conference call on Friday.

The exit of Petronas, which launched the LNG venture two years ago, would be a major blow as it has experience in supplying floating liquefaction vessels.

YPF is increasing production in the announced Vaca Muerta shale zone, where its investment capacity depends largely on the fuel prices charged at the pumps.

Meanwhile, Marin has met with potential LNG buyers in Asia and Europe. On the call, he said YPF has reached more than a dozen agreements with suitors to explore offtake contracts and plans to have another soon with India for a “large number.”