Iraq Inaugurates Third Offshore Pipeline Project

Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil, Engineer Hayan Abdul-Ghani Al-Sawad, affirmed that the third marine pipeline project is one of the most important strategic projects being implemented by the Ministry of Oil through the Basra Oil Company, and represents a qualitative shift in the system for exporting crude oil from Iraq's southern ports.

This came during his attendance at the project's inauguration in Basra Governorate. The Minister explained that the project's design capacity is 2.4 million barrels per day, while its operational capacity reaches approximately 2 million barrels per day, effectively enhancing Iraq's export capacity and providing high flexibility in managing export operations. He explained that the project consists of several vital facilities, including:

A 48-knot offshore pipeline with a total length of approximately 70 km, of which 61 km is offshore and 9 km is onshore; two offshore platforms (VS-1 and VS-2) located near the Basra Oil Port and Khor Al-Amaya Port; an offshore export buoy (SPM-4); a 60-km dual offshore cable for electricity and communications; and control, electricity, communications, and cathodic protection systems.

The Minister explained that the project's importance stems from its ability to add an additional 2 million barrels per day of export capacity and provide multiple options for oil export through its three branches: Basra Oil Port, Khor Al-Amaya Port, and the floating platform (SPM-4).

The Minister indicated that the contract to complete the project was signed on April 13, 2025, between Basra Oil Company and the ESTA & MICOPERI consortium. The contract has a 757-day implementation period, and the project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027. We look forward to continued cooperation and integration between national institutions and international companies to achieve further accomplishments for the benefit of Iraq and its people.

The event was attended by Basra Oil Company Director General Mr. Bassem Abdul Karim and the project's implementing and supporting agencies.

It is worth noting that this project confirms the Ministry of Oil's vision of building an integrated system to secure export energy and strengthen Iraq's position in the global oil market. We also express our high appreciation for the efforts of national personnel and our partners from the implementing companies in completing this major project.