Royal Dutch Shell, China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) and Qatar Petroleum (QP) are expected to sign an exploration and production deal for Qatar Block D, a Qatari official said.

A statement, obtained by Reuters before a signing ceremony, said Shell would hold a 75 percent equity stake, with CNPC holding the remainder.

The 30-year deal, which includes a five-year exploration period, covers onshore and offshore exploration for natural gas and its production in the block, the statement said.