Iraq plans to launch a new international tender for more piers at al-Faw Grand Port. The move follows major progress on the port’s core infrastructure in Basra. Transport officials want global maritime companies to compete for the next development stage. Therefore, the Iraq port expansion has gained fresh momentum.
The Ministry of Transport wants to attract experienced firms in port construction. These companies could help complete the remaining facilities at the strategic site. Moreover, Iraq wants the port to become a major logistics hub. The project could transform Basra into a key gateway for regional trade.
South Korea’s Daewoo E&C completed five major piers under a large contract. These piers form the foundation of the project’s first phase. In addition, the completed work includes key marine and land transport components. This progress now allows Iraq to prepare for wider expansion.
The first phase includes five piers, a major road, a submerged tunnel, and a ship canal. It also includes a large container yard for cargo handling. The road links Al-Faw Grand Port with the Umm Qasr port city. As a result, the project strengthens transport movement across southern Iraq.
The submerged tunnel includes ten sections with a total length of 2,444 meters. Its underwater section stretches 1,226 meters. This tunnel will support traffic movement near the port area. Moreover, it forms an important part of the wider logistics network.
Al-Faw Grand Port sits on the Khor Abdallah Channel near Shatt Al-Arab. Its container berths can handle some of the world’s largest ships. Each berth can receive vessels carrying up to 23,000 twenty-foot equivalent units. Therefore, Iraq wants the port to compete with major regional shipping centers.
The Iraq port expansion also supports the country’s long-term trade ambitions. Officials want al-Faw to reduce pressure on older ports. They also want faster cargo handling and stronger links with regional markets. In addition, the project could improve Iraq’s position in global supply chains.
When fully complete, the port aims to reach 100 berths. It also aims to handle 7.5 million containers each year. This capacity could make it one of the largest container ports in the Middle East. It could also give Iraq a stronger role in international shipping.
The first phase alone can handle four million containers each year. That capacity gives Iraq a strong starting point for commercial operations. However, officials still need more piers and support facilities. Therefore, the next tender carries major economic importance.
The wider project also links to Iraq’s Development Road plan. This land route would connect Basra with Turkey and then Europe. Moreover, it could give traders a new alternative to traditional maritime routes. Iraq hopes this corridor can compete with major global transport pathways.
The logistics project carries an estimated value of about $7 billion. It could attract investment, create jobs, and support private-sector activity. In addition, it may help Iraq diversify beyond oil revenue. Stronger ports can also support industry, warehousing, and export growth.
However, the project still needs steady funding and strong execution. Large transport projects require coordination between ministries, contractors, and local authorities. They also need security, customs reform, and modern management systems. Still, Iraq now appears focused on pushing the project forward.
The Iraq port expansion could reshape the country’s economic future. It connects maritime trade, land transport, investment, and regional competition. Moreover, it gives Basra a chance to become a major trade gateway. If completed well, al-Faw Grand Port could change Iraq’s place on the global shipping map.
