The Canadian junior, which said it would also consider a sale or merger of the company, holds about 2 million acres and operates 14 blocks on the play.

"Given the sustained progress and strong commitment of industry to the Vaca Muerta Shale trend, and Americas Petrogas' several recent operational achievements, we believe now is an appropriate time for the Company to explore strategic alternatives to unlock shareholder value," chief executive Barclay Hambrook said, without elaborating.

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