Energy

Oil Ministry slashes upstream spending for 2026

Urgent austerity plan aims to cut $1.4 billion from oil field budgets nationwide in 2026 without affecting production — a warning sign of fiscal trouble for Iraq.

Oil Minister Hayyan Abdulghani (center left) and Deputy Oil Minister for Upstream Bassim Mohammed Khdair (center right) meet with Zaid Elyaseri (far left), the president of BP Iraq, in Baghdad on Jan. 26, 2026, to discuss the company's upstream plans and project expenses. (Photo credit: Oil Ministry)

Nov 29, 2017

October production slides on Kirkuk upheaval

With major Kirkuk oil fields offline due to Baghdad-KRG conflicts, Iraq is looking to compensate with rising production from southern fields.

Nov 28, 2017

Ministry envisions new contract model for exploration deals

In an upcoming effort to attract investors to nine exploration blocks, Iraq will scrap its signature technical service contracts.

Nov 10, 2017

Iran to facilitate Kirkuk exports

By trucking crude to Iran, the Oil Ministry would reduce dependence on the KRG-controlled export system and open a new outlet for Kirkuk oil that is currently stranded.

Nov 2, 2017

Iraq seeks to reshape northern oil sector

After regaining control of Kirkuk, Baghdad is looking for new outlets for northern oil production while reducing its reliance on the KRG.

Nov 2, 2017

Federal exports climb, revenues hit three-year high

Exports from all of Iraq were just over 3.8 million bpd, a slight decrease from September, but sales from the Basra Gulf grew.

Oct 31, 2017

Baghdad halts Kirkuk oil exports to Turkey

Days after the federal North Oil Company restarted exports through the KRG-controlled pipeline, the Oil Ministry ordered a stop.

Oct 28, 2017

Despite hostilities, northern exports flow

Federal authorities are sending crude through the Kurdistan export pipeline and into Turkish port storage under KRG control - a sign of rare cooperation at a time of explosive political friction.

Oct 25, 2017

With more oil assets threatened, KRG proposes truce

Federal forces are massing for a potential operation to take Feyshkabour, which would effectively end Kurdistan's independent pipeline exports.

Oct 24, 2017

Iraq expands southern export capacity

Basra Gulf terminals increase loading capabilities ahead of plans to boost exports.

Oct 19, 2017

Khurmala in the crosshairs

Federal forces scramble to reinforce dramatic gains in Iraq's disputed territories, as the KRG fortifies a key oil asset in anticipation of another potential confrontation.