Iraq's oil ministry signs deal with Japan's JGC to restart southern FCC project

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Oil Ministry said on Friday it signed an agreement with Japan's JGC Corporation to officially resume construction and operations on a major fluid catalytic cracker (FCC) project in southern Iraq. The deal aims to relaunch work that had previously been halted and revive the project's investment plan. The FCC project is central to Iraq's efforts to expand its energy infrastructure and increase its refining capacity. JGC Corporation, one of Japan's leading engineering and energy firms, will serve as the main contractor under the agreement. According to the ministry, the two sides will accelerate cooperation to ensure the project is completed on schedule and meets technical standards. The agreement was formally launched at an official ceremony held in Baghdad. The deal is expected to support employment opportunities and local contributions tied to the project. No further details on the timeline or investment value were immediately available.