Iraq’s Ministry of Oil has started trial operations at the North Refinery-2 and Salahuddin Refinery-3. Each facility can process 70,000 barrels per day, giving a combined refining capacity of 140,000 bpd, said Deputy Minister of Oil for Refining Affairs Adnan Mohammed Hamoud.
Hamoud called the achievement a major strategic milestone for Iraq’s refining sector. He praised Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani for his strong support and Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs Hayan Abdul Ghani for closely monitoring progress.
Therefore, the two refineries are central to the ministry’s plan to expand refining capacity and improve production efficiency. The project aims to help Iraq enter international petroleum product markets.
Additionally, Hamoud said the new refineries reflect the government’s vision to strengthen national refining capabilities. They will enable Iraq to achieve self-sufficiency in high-quality petroleum products and export surplus fuel. These efforts will support Iraq’s economy and enhance its role in regional and global energy markets.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the projects are the result of months of national effort. “We worked tirelessly and with precision to implement the Iraqi government and Ministry of Oil plans,” Hamoud said. “Today, we are reaping the rewards of these achievements, realized entirely through Iraqi expertise and national commitment.”
Therefore, officials noted that the refineries will generate thousands of jobs and improve fuel distribution in northern and central Iraq. Technical testing of production units is underway, with full commercial operation expected in the coming months.
Moreover, energy analysts said the new capacity will save Iraq millions in foreign currency and increase provincial revenues. The refineries also reduce reliance on imported diesel and gasoline, enhancing energy security and stabilizing domestic fuel markets.
The Ministry of Oil plans to continue modernizing other facilities across the country. The trial operations at North Refinery-2 and Salahuddin Refinery-3 demonstrate Iraq’s growing technical capabilities and commitment to strengthening the national energy sector.