Iraq will begin exporting Basra oil through the Kurdistan Region pipeline to Turkey’s Ceyhan port on Monday, boosting total exports via this route to 330,000 barrels per day.
A source at the North Oil Company said Basra crude will move through the Kurdistan Region’s pipeline network after crews completed final technical preparations at key pumping stations. Operations at the K1 pumping stations in Kirkuk are ready to receive the southern oil. Basra crude will blend with Kirkuk oil before entering the export pipeline toward the Mediterranean port of Ceyhan.
The first shipment includes 90,000 barrels, transported to Kirkuk using about 400 tanker trucks. Once the oil reaches Kirkuk, crews will immediately inject it into the pipeline. Therefore, blending Basra crude with Kirkuk oil improves transport efficiency and increases total export capacity. Once the blending process is fully operational, exports through the Kurdistan Region are expected to reach 330,000 barrels per day.
This export marks the first time Basra oil will flow through the Kurdistan Region’s pipeline. It reflects improved coordination between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Iraqi federal government. Moreover, the arrangement follows the March 18, 2026, agreement to resume exports from Kirkuk via the Kurdish pipeline. Officials said the initiative aims to maintain energy sector stability, secure revenue, and support economic resilience amid regional challenges.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasized that regional and federal authorities are working together to ensure smooth exports. Moreover, the Kurdistan Ministry of Natural Resources oversees the pipeline from Kirkuk to the Fishkhabour terminal, which connects to Ceyhan.
Integrating Basra crude into the pipeline system represents a logistical expansion, connecting southern oil fields to northern export infrastructure. Officials reported that no disruptions occurred during preparation and that all technical measures are complete. Therefore, this shipment continues Iraq’s efforts to unify its oil export framework while ensuring timely delivery to international markets.
