Budget amendment takes Iraq one step toward northern export restart

Parliament passed an amendment to the national budget law designed to pay oil companies in Kurdistan and unlock pipeline exports to Turkey.

Members of the Iraqi Parliament vote on a new budget law on June 11, 2023. (Photo credit: Council of Representatives media)

As Genel exits Taq Taq field, new hopes for restart

Change in operator could spur new activity at the oil field, which has been offline since 2023 after a steady production decline.

A compromise measure to pay Kurdistan's oil contractors and unlock Iraq's northern oil export route has met major political opposition.

Leaders across the political spectrum in Baghdad foresee new security threats, shifting political dynamics, and impacts on energy trade.

As Iraq’s fuel trade increases, a central hub for fuel exports and imports is expanding.