August 19, 2025 [Global Flow Control]- Iraq’s Oil Ministry has shortlisted two companies to develop a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) at the Khor Al-Zubair port in Basra, aimed at importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) to boost electricity generation, according to Zawya News Agency.
The ministry said over the weekend that a third bidder had withdrawn after its revised offer—below 500 million standard cubic feet per day—was rejected. Its alternative proposal for two separate storage and regasification platforms was also dismissed by the Iraqi Ports Company.
Zawya reported that six companies were initially invited to participate in the tender, with bids reviewed by specialised technical committees. The ministry noted that the final decision will be made by the Diwani Order Committee at its upcoming meeting, with all steps subject to ministerial oversight.
As part of project preparations, the ministry confirmed that the South Gas Company and the Oil Projects Company have completed two strategic pipelines to support future imports. These include:
- A 40-kilometre, 42-inch pipeline from Khor Al-Zubair to the Shatt al-Arab regulator, completed in June.
- A 45-kilometre line from Al-Mahmoudiyah, south of Baghdad, to the Bismayah power plant, which is now ready to receive imported gas.
