Baghdad, Iraq – The Director General of Basra Oil Company, Basim Abdul Karim Al-Shamkhani, announced that Iraq has developed a strategic plan to increase its oil export capacity through alternative routes via Syria and Turkey. These exports are expected to reach 650,000 barrels per day, as part of government efforts to ensure the continued flow of crude oil to global markets.
Strengthening Northern Export Routes
Al-Shamkhani explained in a press statement carried by Iraqi media that export capacity through the northern ports will see a significant increase in the coming period. It is expected to approach 650,000 barrels per day. This represents a major part of a government plan aimed at exceeding one million barrels per day via pipelines connected to Turkey and Syria.
Increase Kirkuk oil supplies and expand overland transport
The oil official noted that exports from the Kirkuk oil fields have seen a significant increase in flows to global markets via the Turkish port of Ceyhan. This is due to the pumping of approximately 300,000 barrels per day through the strategic pipeline. In addition, overland transport of oil continues at a rate of 150,000 barrels per day, with plans to increase this to 350,000 barrels per day later.
Pipeline projects to enhance export flexibility
Al-Shamkhani added that the Basra Oil Company began implementing a project to extend a pipeline 21 kilometers long and 32 inches in diameter. The project aims to connect storage facilities in Basra to Khor Al-Zubair Port, with a design capacity of 350,000 barrels per day. This comes with the aim of increasing export efficiency and providing alternatives in the event of disturbances in the Strait of Hormuz.
A strategy to reduce geopolitical risks
These steps come as Baghdad seeks to diversify its oil export routes and reduce reliance on traditional maritime routes. This occurs amid growing concerns about the impact of regional tensions on shipping in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
