Energy

Iraqi wartime production cuts reach 3.6 million bpd

Iraq is navigating acute logistical and infrastructure challenges to maximize refinery consumption and exports while the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.

Workers from the state-run Iraqi Drilling Company (IDC) work on a well at the West Qurna 1 field in Basra in March 2026. (Photo credit: IDC)

Jun 21, 2018

Subba field risks shut-down

After just six months in production, the Subba field is faltering due to bureaucratic dysfunction, tight budgets, and insufficient processing infrastructure.

Jun 20, 2018

Oil Ministry order sets INOC in motion

A 12-person committee will study best international best practices and develop recommendations for implementing a new law to re-create the Iraq National Oil Company.

Jun 14, 2018

May production rises to greet high prices

Efforts to tap Kirkuk's stranded capacity and output increases in Basra help Iraq take advantage of recent oil price strength.

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.