Iraq begins exporting crude oil through the Rabia border crossing to regional markets.
The Border Ports Authority announced on Friday the launch of the first crude oil export operation through the Rabia border crossing with Syria, with the dispatch of the first 70 tankers towards regional markets.
The head of the Border Ports Authority, Omar Adnan Al-Waili, said in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency that “the first crude oil export operation through the Rabia border crossing was launched today, with 70 tankers loaded with oil being exported as a first batch towards the Syrian Arab Republic, and the number is subject to increase, in accordance with approved organizational and security procedures and under the direct supervision of the competent government authorities.”
Al-Waeli stressed that “this step constitutes a launch for activating the Rabia port as a strategic corridor for exporting crude oil, which will contribute to relieving pressure on other ports and diversifying marketing channels, as well as supporting the national economy and increasing revenues.”
He added that “work is underway to increase the port’s capacity and develop its infrastructure and logistics services, in line with the expected volume of activity during the next phase,” noting that “exporting oil through land ports is an important option for diversifying marketing channels and reducing the risks associated with traditional routes.”
This operation comes within the framework of the government’s directions aimed at maximizing non-oil revenues and activating the role of border crossings as effective economic hubs, as well as strengthening cooperation with neighboring countries and facilitating trade exchange in a way that serves common interests.
The Rabia-Yarubiya border crossing between Iraq and Syria reopened its doors to trade and travelers on April 22, after a 13-year closure.
Meanwhile, the Vice President of the Arab Exporters and Importers Union, Muhammad Riyad Al-Sirafi, confirmed that reopening the “Al-Yarubiyah – Rabia” border crossing will contribute to strengthening supply chains and reducing shipping costs, given the logistical and economic importance of the crossing in trade between Iraq and Syria.
Shafaq.com