RNS Number:0610P
Total S.A.
27 August 2003

Total is High Bidder on 18 Deepwater Gulf of Mexico Blocks

Paris, August 27, 2003 - Total announces that it subsidiary, Total E&P USA,
Inc., was the high bidder on 18 deepwater exploration blocks during the August
20 Gulf of Mexico lease sale 187.  Total will operate these blocks with a 100%
working interest.  Award of these blocks is subject to final approval by the
U.S. Interior Department's Minerals Management Service.

The blocks, located in the Keathley Canyon area of the western Gulf of Mexico,
cover an area of 259 square kilometers and are situated in water depths of
approximately 2,100 meters.

This acquisition is in accordance with Total's strategy in the Gulf of Mexico of
using its international deepwater experience to identify new opportunities.

                      This information is provided by RNS
            The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

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