Iraq targets 7 million bpd output in three years, testing OPEC discipline

Baghdad's aggressive production roadmap adds supply-side pressure to the cartel's balancing act, following recent threats to exit OPEC over quota constraints.

By Handelsavisen Newsroom · Automated 2026-06-27 10:08 UTC · 1 min read

Iraq has outlined an ambitious plan to increase crude oil production to 7 million barrels per day (bpd) within the next three years, Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi announced on Saturday.

Speaking to Sky News, the Iraqi leader framed the target as a strategic priority for the country's economic development, signaling a push to maximize output capacity regardless of current cartel constraints.

For energy markets, the prospect of Iraq reaching 7 million bpd represents a substantial increase in global supply.

The statement intensifies existing tensions within OPEC+, where Iraq has previously threatened to leave the organization if its production quotas are not significantly raised.

This latest target suggests Baghdad is preparing for a scenario where it operates independently of strict output limits, potentially flooding the market with additional supply if diplomatic negotiations fail.

For energy markets, the prospect of Iraq reaching 7 million bpd represents a substantial increase in global supply.

Current production levels hover below this mark, meaning the target would require significant infrastructure investment and operational efficiency gains.