Energy

Iraq seeks backup export options as Basra loadings falter

Cabinet orders emergency package for boosting oil sales after dropping to a multi-decade low in May.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi (center right), Oil Minister Bassim Mohammed Khudair (far left), and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein (second from left) confer at a Cabinet meeting in Baghdad on June 2, 2026. (Photo credit: Oil Ministry)

Jun 12, 2018

Q&A: Abdul Mahdy al-Ameedi, head of Iraq’s oil contracts

Despite operating under a caretaker Cabinet, the Oil Ministry's contracting chief is trying to sustain momentum on the 5th bidding round and other major projects.

Jun 6, 2018

Chevron takes small step into southern Iraq

After years circling the periphery of Iraq's oil sector, Chevron has signed a non-binding agreement to discuss projects in Basra and Dhi Qar provinces.

Jun 5, 2018

UPDATE: Kirkuk-to-Iran exports stuck at the border

Tanker trucks have taken Kirkuk crude to Iran, eyewitnesses say, but Iraq's Oil Ministry claims the 60,000 bpd export deal is not yet active.

Jun 5, 2018

Court grants final delay in Baghdad-KRG case

A month after requesting a postponement, Iraq’s highest court granted another delay — this one, ostensibly, the last.

Jun 4, 2018

Nationwide exports and revenues increase in May

Oil exports from Iraq's federal government and Kurdistan region increased in May, taking advantage of a rising oil price.

May 24, 2018

ZhenHua inks deal for East Baghdad field

Chinese firm will quadruple production, to 40,000 bpd, under a new deal that differs significantly from Iraq's previous technical service contracts.

May 22, 2018

Q&A: Gary Vogler

The longest-serving American in Iraq's oil sector gives an insider's account of tactical victories, strategic blunders, and hidden agendas in post-2003 reconstruction.

May 8, 2018

Q&A: Fazil Basharati, member of KDP leadership council

A leading member of the KRG's ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) discusses fractures among Kurdish parties and the prospects for unification in Baghdad.

May 8, 2018

Oil Ministry widens BP mandate in Kirkuk

BP's consulting deal to help maximize Kirkuk production now includes more fields, including key assets currently managed by the KRG.

May 2, 2018

Q&A: Abdul Mahdy al-Ameedi, chief of Iraq oil contracts

The head of the Oil Ministry's Petroleum Contracts and Licensing Directorate discusses negotiations with Exxon, Iraq's new oil contract terms, the future of Kirkuk, and much more.