Baghdad – Iraq’s Ministry of Oil announced plans to increase liquid gas production by expanding crude oil extraction and improving associated gas utilization. Officials say the strategy aims to strengthen domestic energy supplies while boosting export opportunities. The new Iraq liquid gas production plan also supports broader efforts to reduce energy waste and improve gas investment projects.
Oil Ministry spokesperson Asim Jihad said Iraq continues working to maximize associated gas recovery from crude oil operations. He explained that the ministry’s long-term strategy focuses on increasing crude extraction volumes to produce larger quantities of liquid gas and other energy resources.
According to ministry figures, liquid gas currently represents nearly 54 percent of Iraq’s crude oil production volumes. Officials believe expanding production capacity could help Iraq meet rising domestic energy demand while increasing export revenues.
Jihad noted that Iraq already exported several liquid gas shipments during 2023, 2024, and 2025. The ministry now aims to increase those export levels through new development and investment programs tied to the country’s oil sector.
Officials also continue expanding projects linked to Iraq’s fifth and sixth licensing rounds. These agreements include major investments designed to activate free gas production across several energy fields. Authorities hope the projects will reduce dependence on imported fuel supplies while strengthening Iraq’s energy independence.
The ministry explained that Iraq produces two main types of natural gas. The first type is primary or “mother” gas, which accounts for around 20 to 25 percent of total gas production. The second type is associated gas, generated during oil extraction, which forms nearly 80 percent of production.
Most associated gas currently supports local electricity generation and domestic and industrial needs. After meeting internal demand, Iraq exports surplus quantities to regional and international markets. Officials believe stronger gas infrastructure could significantly increase future export capacity.
The growing Iraqi liquid gas production strategy also reflects efforts to reduce gas flaring across the country. Iraq has long faced criticism for burning large volumes of associated gas during oil extraction instead of capturing and utilizing it efficiently. Energy projects linked to licensing rounds aim to improve collection systems and reduce waste.
Officials say expanding free gas production remains another major priority. Unlike associated gas, free gas exists independently of crude oil deposits and can provide a more stable long-term supply source. Iraq hopes new investments will accelerate development in this sector during the coming years.
Energy analysts believe the Iraq liquid gas production initiative could strengthen Iraq’s position in regional energy markets if infrastructure upgrades continue successfully. The government also expects gas sector growth to support electricity generation and reduce pressure on the national power network.
For Baghdad, improving gas production now stands as a central part of its broader economic and energy development plans.