Iraq’s oil export negotiations progress as the Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) welcomes new talks between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Government of Iraq (GoI). These negotiations aim to restart crude exports through the Iraq-Türkiye Pipeline (ITP), a critical lifeline for Iraq’s northern oil flow.
APIKUR made its announcement after a high-level meeting on July 12, 2025. International Oil Companies (IOCs), including APIKUR members, joined this session alongside officials from both the KRG and GoI. They discussed the terms required to resume exports through the ITP.
IOCs made it clear that they stand ready to restart exports right away. However, they require binding agreements that ensure full payment for future shipments. Each company wants to work under its current, legally valid contracts.
The companies also demanded a clear method to settle unpaid dues. They proposed resolving those arrears through individual agreements with the KRG and GoI. IOCs requested either cash payments or in-kind transfers of oil to fulfill their contract entitlements.
APIKUR spokesperson Myles B. Caggins III shared the organization’s firm stance. He confirmed that member companies will resume exports once they receive written agreements that honor their existing production-sharing contracts. He added that APIKUR always insists on full respect for international law.
Caggins also clarified that APIKUR never joined any meetings where it accepted changes to its members’ legal rights. Instead, the group continues to defend those rights and calls for full compliance with original terms.
The talks between the KRG and GoI show growing momentum. Both governments now appear more willing to find common ground. If they finalize the agreements, they can reopen the ITP and resume oil exports soon.
APIKUR believes that resolving the export suspension will support Iraq’s energy economy. It will also rebuild trust between public and private players in the oil sector. The group encourages both sides to maintain the current pace of progress.
With clear commitment and active cooperation, Iraq’s oil export negotiations progress continues to offer hope. The return of ITP flows could restore stability and generate much-needed revenue for the country.