Baghdad – The Artawi gas project has reached a major construction milestone as Iraq accelerates efforts to increase domestic natural gas production. The Ministry of Oil announced that the project is advancing toward its first operational phase, which aims to process 300 million standard cubic feet of associated gas each day. Officials see the development as a key step toward improving energy security and reducing dependence on imported fuel.
Deputy Oil Minister for Gas Affairs Ezzat Saber Ismail visited the construction site in Basra to inspect the project’s latest progress. During the visit, he reviewed ongoing work across several major facilities that will play a central role in gas collection and processing. Senior officials from the South Gas Company, Basra Oil Company, and the Artawi project management team also joined the inspection.
The first phase will collect associated gas from three major southern oil fields. These include Artawi, West Qurna 2, and Majnoon. The combined supply will provide enough raw gas to support the project’s processing capacity and strengthen Iraq’s domestic energy network.
One of the project’s most important components is the AG25 accelerated gas recovery system. This facility will capture associated gas that would otherwise be burned through flaring. Instead, the recovered gas will supply Iraq’s electricity sector and support growing domestic energy demand.
Another major element is the Gas Management Plant, which will process raw gas into cleaner and usable fuel. Engineers are building specialized treatment units that remove impurities before the gas enters the national energy system. These facilities will improve fuel quality while increasing production efficiency.
The Artawi gas project also supports Iraq’s environmental objectives. Reducing gas flaring will lower harmful emissions while making better use of valuable natural resources. Officials believe the project will help Iraq meet international environmental commitments and improve sustainability across the energy sector.
During the site visit, Ismail described the project as a strategic investment in Iraq’s future. He said greater use of domestically produced gas will strengthen electricity generation and reduce spending on imported fuel. Lower fuel imports could also improve government finances over the long term.
The deputy minister instructed construction teams to maintain the approved engineering schedule. He emphasized the importance of completing each phase on time without unnecessary administrative delays. The Ministry of Oil pledged to provide financial and logistical support whenever needed to keep construction moving efficiently.
Government officials expect the project to deliver long-term economic benefits alongside stronger energy security. Increased gas production can support power stations, improve electricity supplies, and create additional value from Iraq’s oil operations. The project also helps maximize resources that previously went to waste through gas flaring.
The Artawi gas project forms part of Iraq’s broader strategy to modernize its energy sector. Authorities continue investing in gas infrastructure to reduce imports, expand domestic production, and strengthen national energy independence. Officials believe these investments will support economic growth while improving environmental performance across the country.