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Iraq Seeking Optimal Investments in Oil, Gas

A handout picture provided by the Iranian presidency shows Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani addressing a joint press conference with the Iranian president after their meeting in Tehran on November 6, 2023. (Photo by Iranian Presidency / AFP)
A handout picture provided by the Iranian presidency shows Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani addressing a joint press conference with the Iranian president after their meeting in Tehran on November 6, 2023. (Photo by Iranian Presidency / AFP)
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Iraq Seeking Optimal Investments in Oil, Gas

A handout picture provided by the Iranian presidency shows Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani addressing a joint press conference with the Iranian president after their meeting in Tehran on November 6, 2023. (Photo by Iranian Presidency / AFP)
A handout picture provided by the Iranian presidency shows Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani addressing a joint press conference with the Iranian president after their meeting in Tehran on November 6, 2023. (Photo by Iranian Presidency / AFP)

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia Al-Sudani stressed on Sunday the importance of utilizing crude oil prices in the global market in increasing financial allocations through optimal oil and gas investments.

During a meeting with Oil Ministry officials, Sudani underscored the need to advance the vital oil sector in all its aspects due to its importance to the state’s development.

Oil represents the primary source of income for Iraq, he remarked, adding that the government is working to develop the sector, as well as the chemical, petrochemical, and fertilizer industries and the electricity sector.

According to a statement by the Iraqi government, Sudani was briefed on the discussions between the Ministry of Oil and the Ministry of Natural Resources in the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to complete the procedures required to resume crude oil exports through the Turkish port of Ceyhan.

He reviewed the implementation of the Ministry’s plans to develop the oil sector in Iraq and projects related to oil and gas extraction, refineries, and exports.

The meeting also tackled investment opportunities announced by the Oil Ministry in 2023.

Meanwhile, a prominent Iraqi official said on Sunday that Iraq has made great strides to expand investment in the gas sector and stop burning operations.

Speaking at the Gas Investment Conference, South Gas Company Director General Hamza Abdul-Baqi Nassir said Iraq is investing in gas from oil fields to meet domestic consumption demands and is considering exporting the surplus to global markets.

The Ministry of Oil has made great efforts to activate licensing contracts with foreign companies to reach a production of 1,000 million standard cubic feet to secure the requirements for energy production and stop gas-burning operations to reduce environmental risks.

Iraq is working to establish a company to absorb all the gases produced, aside from cooperation with the French company Total, he said, adding that it would push towards boosting the capabilities of oil fields and developing alternative energy programs.

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Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
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Saudi Transport, Logistics Sector Set for 10% Growth in Q2

An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)
An investor monitors a trading screen at the Saudi financial market in Riyadh. (AFP)

As Saudi companies start reporting their Q2 financial results, experts are optimistic about the transport and logistics sector. They expect a 10% annual growth, with total net profits reaching around SAR 900 million ($240 million), driven by tourism and an economic corridor project.

In Q1, the seven listed transport and logistics companies in Saudi Arabia showed positive results, with combined profits increasing by 5.8% to SAR 818.7 million ($218 million) compared to the previous year.

Four companies reported profit growth, while three saw declines, including two with losses, according to Arbah Capital.

Al Rajhi Capital projects significant gains for Q2 compared to last year: Lumi Rental’s profits are expected to rise by 31% to SAR 65 million, SAL’s by 76% to SAR 192 million, and Theeb’s by 23% to SAR 37 million.

On the other hand, Aljazira Capital predicts a 13% decrease in Lumi Rental’s net profit to SAR 43 million, despite a 44% rise in revenue. This is due to higher operational costs post-IPO.

SAL’s annual profit is expected to grow by 76% to SAR 191.6 million, driven by a 29% increase in revenue and higher profit margins.

Aljazira Capital also expects a 2.8% drop in the sector’s net profit from Q1 due to lower profits for SAL and Seera, caused by reduced revenue and profit margins.

Mohammad Al Farraj, Head of Asset Management at Arbah Capital, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the sector’s continued profit growth is supported by seasonal factors like summer travel and higher demand for transport services.

He predicts Q2 profits will reach around SAR 900 million ($240 million), up 10% from Q1.

Al Farraj highlighted that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), linking India with the GCC and Europe, is expected to boost sector growth by improving trade and transport connections.

However, he warned that companies may still face challenges, including rising costs and workforce shortages.