Iraq has called on the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to increase its oil production quota, citing the impact of years of conflict and recent regional instability that have significantly affected its oil industry.
The country’s oil ministry said on Thursday that Iraq, a founding member of OPEC, has consistently argued for a review of production baselines to better reflect the “sustainable production capacities” of member states, taking into account its “unique security and economic circumstances.”
Like other oil-producing nations in the Middle East, Iraq’s economy remains heavily dependent on crude oil exports, which account for about 90 per cent of government revenue.
According to the ministry, OPEC has already initiated a process to reassess member countries’ production capacities in response to such concerns.
Amid speculation about a possible withdrawal from the oil cartel, oil ministry spokesperson Salim al-Rikabi dismissed the reports, stating that Iraq has no intention of leaving OPEC and remains committed to its framework and decision-making processes.
He, however, warned that Iraq expects a fair adjustment of its quota, adding that continued limitations could force difficult policy considerations.
“Iraq has no intention of withdrawing from the organisation and remains committed to its mechanisms,” al-Rikabi said.
He added that the country has continued to increase production in line with its capacity and economic needs, while stressing that quota discussions must reflect national realities.
Reports suggesting Iraq may exit OPEC were also rejected by the ministry, which described them as inconsistent with the government’s official position.
The ministry noted that any disputes over production baselines are handled through established technical and consensus-based mechanisms within OPEC.
It added that member states have shown understanding of Iraq’s situation, given its decades of war, sanctions, and recent attacks on its energy infrastructure during regional conflicts.
Officials said these factors must be considered to ensure Iraq is allowed to reach what they described as a “fair level” of oil production.
Iraq’s push comes as the Middle East energy sector continues to recover from disruptions linked to regional conflict, including attacks on oil facilities and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz that previously disrupted global supply chains.
Before the latest unrest, Iraq produced about four million barrels per day and exported roughly 3.5 million barrels daily, largely through the Strait of Hormuz.
Following a recent agreement aimed at easing regional tensions, Iraq has expressed optimism about returning to its previous production levels within two months.
