Iraq has introduced a new plan to boost oil exports through northern routes, including lines connected to Syria. Bassim Abdul Karim al-Shemhani, General Manager of Basra Oil Company, stated that export capacity via these routes will soon reach approximately 650,000 barrels per day.
According to al-Shemhani, this volume represents about 60% of the Iraqi government's target to exceed 1 million barrels per day through these exit points. The plan is being implemented to diversify crude oil exports and reduce reliance on maritime routes.
Al-Shemhani noted that technical teams continue to work on projects to improve export infrastructure, with new efforts underway in northern regions as part of this process. The goal is to keep transport lines ready and ensure uninterrupted oil shipments.
It was also announced that Iraq currently transports 150,000 barrels of oil daily by road to the northern region, with plans to increase this amount to around 350,000 barrels in the future. This step is expected to enhance the northern route's significance in Iraq's overall exports.
On June 2, the Iraqi Cabinet approved a contract between the Ministry of Oil and the Syrian side concerning the transportation, storage, and handling of crude oil through the ports of Baniyas and Tartus. The contract covers Basra Light, Medium, and Heavy crude oil types.
According to the Iraqi National News Agency, the Ministry of Oil also plans to open a representative office in Syria to manage export operations via this new route.
During the same session, approval was given for preparing a suitable and detailed plan to maximize crude oil export capacity. The goal is to increase oil exports via pipelines from 220,000 barrels per day to 770,000 barrels per day in two phases over two and a half months.
Additionally, oil exports by road through neighboring countries are planned to rise to 420,000 barrels per day in three phases. Through these measures, Iraq aims to expand the routes by which its oil reaches international markets.