Iraq sets out plan to lift oil output to 4.3 million barrels a day, revive Ceyhan exports

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Oil Ministry unveiled a strategic plan on Sunday, June 21, 2026, to gradually raise national crude production back to pre-crisis levels and restart exports through the Ceyhan pipeline. The strategy targets output of 4.3 million barrels per day, seeking to offset losses sustained during the recent crisis period. The ministry said reviving crude shipments via the Ceyhan pipeline is a core element of the plan, with the goal of restoring Iraqi oil supply on international markets closer to earlier levels. Officials added that technical preparations and logistical arrangements on the Ceyhan line will be decisive during the plan's rollout. Under the strategy, Iraq intends to lift capacity at existing fields, modernize infrastructure and accelerate investment. The ministry said the targets will be implemented over the short and medium term, with the production increase carried out in phases. The plan marks one of Baghdad's clearest public outlines for rebuilding output and export capacity since the disruptions, though officials did not provide a specific timeline for reaching the 4.3 million barrel target. No further details on contractual partners or financing were immediately available.