Total exploring feasibility of world-scale petchem complex in Iraq

LONDON (ICIS)–France’s Total is continuing with exploratory discussions aimed at establishing the feasibility of building a world-scale petrochemical complex in Iraq, the company said on Tuesday.

Patrick Pouyanne, head of Total’s refining and chemicals division, said he has signed a preliminary accord with Iraq’s industry ministry to examine whether the complex could be constructed in the southern Iraqi port of Basra.

No details on the possible investment value or timeframe for the project have yet been released by Total.

Last November, Iraq’s government announced it was moving towards signing a contract with Anglo-Dutch oil and gas giant Royal Dutch Shell for the construction of an €8bn petrochemicals facility in southern Iraq.

Thamir Abbas Ghadhban, chairman of the Advisory Commission to the Iraqi Prime Minister’s Office and former Iraqi minister of oil, has agreed to give an update on the growth and outlook of Iraq’s downstream economy at the Abu Dhabi International Downstream Exhibition and Conference taking place from 11-13 May, the organisers of the event, the World Refining Association, said.