Iraq's Anbar awards multi-billion-dollar gas field contract to CAR despite controversy

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Anbar governorate has awarded a contract to develop the Halise gas field to CAR under a licensing round, describing the project as the province's largest investment. Governor Omar Meysan Dubus said the field is strategically important and would strengthen the local economy, with the provincial administration pledging to provide the necessary support. The decision has drawn criticism because of CAR's record, which has long been tied to oil smuggling allegations and disputed contracts. Ala Heyderi, a member of the Iraqi Parliament's Oil and Gas Committee, said the company's file remains under investigation and that the committee will submit its final report to the relevant authorities. Heyderi also pointed to OPEC's assessments of Iraqi oil, noting that some files related to northern production and exports are being revisited. Economic and energy analysts have called for a clear public explanation of whether awarding a multi-billion-dollar gas field to a company facing such scrutiny is consistent with transparency standards. Officials have argued that the project will boost domestic gas output, reduce import dependence and ease power outages. With the contract moving forward, calls have grown for independent oversight bodies to review the company selection criteria and for contract and audit processes to be carried out publicly, with results shared transparently.