Iraq begins trial operation of a Najaf LPG depot with 3,000 cubic metres of storage

Iraq began trial operations on Monday 3 August 2026 at a liquefied petroleum gas depot in Najaf province with 3,000 cubic metres of storage capacity, with the stated aim of strengthening strategic reserves and stabilising supplies across central and other provinces.

Oil Ministry Undersecretary for Gas Affairs Izzat Saber Ismail said the depot will receive LPG through pipelines rather than tanker trucks, improving safety and supporting stable deliveries to production and service facilities. The project is part of wider plans to expand Iraq's LPG storage, transport and distribution network, with technical procedures for full operation expected to be completed within days. Anmar Ali Hussein, director general of the State Company for Gas Filling and Services, said the trial was completed successfully under approved technical and operating requirements and that the company is developing additional depots across Iraq.

According to Oil Ministry figures, Iraq produces about 4,500 tonnes of LPG a day against consumption of roughly 4,700 tonnes, while strategic reserves stand at around 50,000 tonnes. Nearly 95,000 vehicles across Iraq were running on LPG by July, up from more than 70,000 in March.