Iraq to resume oil exports from Kurdistan Region through Turkey’s Ceyhan port
Mohammed explained that while the suspension of Kurdistan Region oil exports in the past had caused setbacks for the oil fields, efforts are now underway to restore production levels.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – A major milestone for Iraq’s oil industry was announced by Bassem Mohammed, Deputy for Extraction Affairs at the Iraqi Oil Ministry, on Sunday. In the first phase of resuming oil exports, Iraq is set to receive 185,000 barrels of oil per day from the Kurdistan Region, following its export to Turkey’s Ceyhan port. This amount will increase over time, with plans to reach 400,000 barrels per day.
Mohammed explained that while the suspension of Kurdistan Region oil exports in the past had caused setbacks for the oil fields, efforts are now underway to restore production levels. "It will take time to reach previous levels," he stated, referring to the impacts of the hiatus on production.
Currently, the Kurdistan Region has the capacity to produce 300,000 barrels of oil per day, with 185,000 of those barrels designated for export and the remainder allocated for domestic use.
Mohammed also highlighted positive developments in Erbil-Baghdad relations, noting a recent visit by a delegation from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to discuss the formation of a joint committee aimed at monitoring the oil export process. He added that the KRG had shown strong readiness to resume oil exports.
To ensure the safe and efficient resumption of exports, technical teams from the North Oil Company and KRG representatives have been inspecting the pipelines leading to the Ceyhan port. The goal is to ensure the pipelines are in suitable condition and assess the pressure levels on the network.
Additionally, Mohammed revealed that discussions have been held with Turkish officials to confirm the readiness of the pipelines for exports. "We are awaiting a response within the next 24 hours," he said.
This announcement marks a positive step forward in strengthening Iraq’s energy sector and solidifying strategic ties with both the Kurdistan Region and Turkey. The Iraqi Oil Ministry remains committed to resuming oil exports through Ceyhan, as part of a broader vision for enhancing bilateral relations. The ministry continues to engage with both parties to ensure smooth operations and a sustainable export process