A proposed pipeline linking southern Iraq’s oil fields to the Turkish port of Ceyhan on the Mediterranean has re-emerged as a strategic option for diversifying Iraq’s export routes, according to analysis published by the Centre for Trade and Economic Studies (TREC).
The proposal has gained renewed attention following remarks by the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, who highlighted the project’s potential to strengthen supply security and reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz.
The pipeline would connect Rumaila Oil Field and other Basra-area fields northward through Haditha, Baiji, and Fishkhabur near the Turkish border, before continuing through Silopi to Ceyhan. The Turkish section alone would span approximately 650 kilometres, comprising two pipes of 40 and 46 inches in diameter, with an estimated export capacity of around 1.5 million barrels per day.
TREC identifies the following potential strategic benefits:
- Diversification of export channels to stabilise oil revenues
- Reduced dependence on sensitive maritime chokepoints
- Greater flexibility in managing exports during crises
- Strengthened negotiating position in global markets
- Increased confidence among international partners in the reliability of Iraqi supply
The project would also encompass natural gas transmission, supporting energy integration between Iraq and Turkey and addressing Iraq’s future power generation needs. TREC notes alignment with Iraq’s broader “Development Road” initiative, which aims to position the country as an economic corridor between Asia and Europe.
Challenges identified include securing project financing, establishing a stable legal and regulatory framework, addressing security and logistical concerns along the Iraqi section of the route, and ensuring effective political and technical coordination between the parties involved. TREC notes, however, that international assessments – including those of Birol – suggest financing obstacles may be surmountable, particularly given growing European interest in securing stable energy supplies.
Economicreports Iraq
(Source: Ministry of Trade)
