Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraq’s oil exports fluctuated during September 2026, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions related to the Middle East war and Baghdad’s efforts to diversify its export routes.
The spokesperson for the Iraqi Oil Ministry, Salim al-Rikabi, told Attaqa News that exports started at three million barrels per day at the beginning of September but have since gradually declined to about 2.4 million barrels per day at present.
Despite a decline in Iraqi oil exports during September, the figures still surpassed the average daily exports in August, which were approximately 2.35 million barrels per day. This increase was bolstered by enhanced shipping traffic and a decrease in shipping disruptions in the Gulf over the past few weeks.
Data indicates that Iraq’s oil exports continue to be affected by the repercussions of the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, despite improved export routes in the past few weeks. Baghdad is working to secure alternatives and enhance the operational capacity of its oil terminals.
Despite a relative improvement, Iraq’s current oil exports remain below pre-February 2026 levels, reflecting continued pressure on supply chains, after shipments reached approximately 73 million barrels in August, according to data released by Iraq’s State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO).
The average daily export volume of Iraqi oil in August 2026 surged to approximately 2.354 million barrels. This figure represents a significant increase compared to the combined total of roughly 526,470 barrels per day in May and June. This rise marks the highest levels of oil export and revenue since the onset of the US-Israeli war against Iran.
Iraq’s oil exports during August were distributed between the country’s southern maritime terminals and the Turkish port of Ceyhan via the northern outlet.
The increase in exports comes amid an easing of shipping delays in the Arabian Gulf and Iran’s authorization for certain oil tankers transporting Iraqi oil to traverse the Strait of Hormuz.
Iraq’s oil exports indicate a notable recovery compared to previous months, with revenues reaching approximately $4.5 billion in August, compared to $2.336 billion in May and June combined.
