Iraq’s fourth international oil, gas and licensing rounds conference has opened in Baghdad, with the Ministry of Oil highlighting major achievements in exports, refining and energy infrastructure during the first 100 days of the new government.
Oil Minister Basim Mohammed Khudhair Al-Abadi said Iraq’s oil exports have increased significantly, rising from around 200,000 barrels per day at the start of the government’s term to more than 3 million barrels per day in September.
He credited the growth to the efforts of ministry employees, national oil companies and international partners working across the sector.
Al-Abadi said the ministry has made progress on several key projects aimed at strengthening Iraq’s energy industry and expanding export capabilities.
One of the major developments was the signing of an agreement between Iraq and Turkey to reactivate the northern oil export route. The agreement is expected to improve export security and provide an additional pathway for Iraqi crude to reach international markets.
The minister also highlighted plans for a strategic pipeline project involving a consortium that includes Chevron, U.S.-based TI Capital and Qatar’s UCC. The proposed pipeline would connect Basra to Fishkhabur and include a branch extending toward Baniyas in Syria.
Al-Abadi said Iraq also signed several agreements during a recent visit to the United States. These agreements cover oil field development, exploration blocks and energy infrastructure projects.
Another important step was the successful conclusion of negotiations with Japanese engineering company JGC Corporation, which is set to return to Iraq and resume work on a fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) project at the country’s southern refineries.
The minister also praised efforts to secure fuel supplies and transportation logistics across all provinces during the Arbaeen pilgrimage season, which lasted for about 60 days and saw millions of visitors travel across Iraq.
Looking ahead, Al-Abadi said the ministry will focus on increasing oil production and export capacity, while also working to diversify export routes to strengthen energy security.
Other priorities include expanding refining capacity, reducing gas flaring, making better use of associated gas resources and lowering Iraq’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
He also stressed the importance of increasing the role of Iraqi companies in the energy sector and creating more opportunities for local firms to participate in major projects.
According to the minister, these efforts are aimed at strengthening Iraq’s energy industry, improving infrastructure and supporting long-term economic growth.
