After years of hiatus, the first oil export tanker docks at a side-loading site in Iraqi waters.
After years of hiatus, the first oil export tanker docks at a side-loading site in Iraqi waters.
2025-08-01 02:18
Shafaq News – Basra
The General Company for Iraqi Ports docked the first oil export tanker at a side-loading site in Iraqi territorial waters on Friday, following a prolonged hiatus of more than four years since SOMO ceased operations. This step marks the practical resumption of export operations via this vital route, “through purely national efforts.”
The company’s general manager, Farhan Al-Fartousi, told Shafaq News Agency, “The tanker (V PROGRESS) was successfully docked at the side loading site within Iraqi territorial waters, which is the site designated for exporting petroleum derivatives and crude oil.” He indicated that “this process was carried out under the direct supervision of the staff of the General Company for Iraqi Ports after it took over full management of the loading area.”
He added, “The side loading (STS) process was completed according to approved standards, and the tanker was loaded with crude oil before safely leaving the port, carrying the international STS Clearance certificate, which was stamped for the first time with the logo of the General Company for Iraqi Ports.”
Al-Fartousi explained that “this achievement not only reflects the restoration of control over a strategic export site, but also highlights the national competence and technical expertise of the company’s employees,” noting that “the entire operation was executed without any foreign support and with high professionalism, thanks to the continuous efforts of our technical staff.”
The company’s general manager continued, “The company is continuing to expand its operational capabilities and enhance international partners’ confidence in the efficiency of Iraqi ports. The return of side-loading activity after years of hiatus represents a significant turning point in the energy export map and will contribute to raising the efficiency of seaports under full Iraqi sovereignty and management.”
shafaq.com
