APIKUR Urges Renewed Efforts to Resume Oil Exports via Iraq-Türkiye Pipeline
The Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) has called for intensified negotiations to resolve outstanding issues and resume oil exports through the Iraq-Türkiye Pipeline (ITP). In a recent press release, the group emphasized the need for constructive dialogue amid stalled talks with the Iraqi government.
While Iraqi officials have repeatedly stressed the economic importance of restarting oil flows through the ITP, APIKUR stated that discussions so far have been "limited and unproductive." The association urged all parties to redouble efforts to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Press Release: @apikur_oil calls for redoubling of efforts to reach the agreements required to resume oil exports via Iraq-Türkiye pipeline.
— APIKUR (@apikur_oil) April 27, 2025
The Govt of Iraq continues to publicly express the importance of oil exports through the ITP but engagements thus far have been limited… pic.twitter.com/Q4usqSWBeh
The ITP, a critical export route for Kurdish crude, has been inactive since March 2023 following an international arbitration ruling that favored Iraq in a dispute with Türkiye over independent oil sales by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The suspension has severely impacted Kurdistan’s oil-reliant economy and global energy markets.
APIKUR, representing international oil companies in the region, warned that prolonged delays risk further financial losses for Iraq, the KRG, and energy firms. The group called for swift action to restore exports, highlighting the need for clear terms on payment settlements and operational control.
The Iraqi government has yet to respond to APIKUR’s latest statement. Meanwhile, industry analysts suggest that without a breakthrough, Kurdistan’s oil sector could face long-term damage, with companies reconsidering investments in the region.
Efforts to restart the ITP remain a key focus for both Baghdad and Erbil, but a resolution hinges on overcoming longstanding disputes over oil revenue sharing and export authority.
