Iraq expands oil export outlets to bypass traditional routes
Iraq expands oil export outlets to bypass traditional routes
2026-06-20
Shafaq News – Baghdad
Iraq is preparing to begin exporting about 50,000 barrels per day of crude oil through Syrian territory starting next July, as part of a government strategy aimed at diversifying oil export outlets and reducing reliance on traditional routes in the Gulf.
Reuters reported that the plan also includes exporting naphtha through Syrian ports, at a time when Baghdad confirms its continued reliance on this route even after navigation returns to normal in the Strait of Hormuz, as part of a policy aimed at enhancing the security of oil exports and avoiding the risks associated with relying on a single outlet.
In parallel, Syria is working to expand the capacity of the Banias port to receive more Iraqi oil shipments by opening additional unloading areas and support facilities, as part of strengthening its role as a major energy transit corridor in the region.
The port’s current capacity is about 900 tanker trucks per day, while transport operations face logistical challenges related to infrastructure and congestion on the roads leading to the port, in addition to some accidents and fuel leaks during the past months.
Oil sector officials confirm that cooperation between Baghdad and Damascus is part of a shared approach to developing alternative export routes, ensuring the continued flow of Iraqi oil to global markets under all circumstances, and enhancing the flexibility of the country’s export system.
Iraq typically exports around 3.6 million barrels of oil per day, making diversifying export outlets a strategic step to maintain stable oil revenues and reduce the risks associated with relying on a single outlet.
On another front of economic cooperation, the transit of Iraqi fuel shipments through Syrian territory constitutes an additional source of revenue, as Syria receives transit fees and logistical services related to the shipping movement, at a time when it is working to develop its oil infrastructure to accommodate the increasing quantities coming from Iraq.
These developments come as part of Damascus’ efforts to strengthen its role in regional energy trade and revitalize its oil sector, in parallel with Iraq’s expansion of export options and diversification of its routes to foreign markets.
shafaq.com
