Basra oil is being exported for the first time through the Kurdistan Region’s pipeline to Turkey’s Ceyhan port. As a result, Kirkuk’s total oil exports reach over 330,000 barrels per day.
A source from the North Oil Company told Kurdistan24 correspondent Soran Kamaran that on Monday, April 6, 2026, the first shipment will reach Kirkuk. Then, it will move through the Kurdistan pipeline. This follows an agreement between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Iraqi federal government on March 18, 2026.
The source added that all preparations at the K1 pumping stations are complete. Basra oil will travel to Kirkuk. There, it will mix with Kirkuk oil before being sent to Ceyhan.
The first shipment consists of 90,000 barrels. Around 400 tankers transported this oil. Once it arrives in Kirkuk, it will enter the export pipeline immediately. This ensures smooth delivery and avoids delays.
Mixing Basra oil with Kirkuk oil will increase Iraq’s total exports to about 330,000 barrels per day. Also, it strengthens Iraq’s energy exports. Moreover, the Kurdistan pipeline plays a key role in connecting northern oil fields to international markets.
Officials say the pipeline is vital for stable oil exports. Therefore, Basra oil export via the Kurdistan pipeline is a historic step. It also improves logistics and enhances Iraq’s position in regional and global energy markets.