The Iraqi Ministry of Transport announced significant progress in the Grand Faw Port project in the southern Iraqi city of Basra, with preparations underway to launch the port’s operation bid to 11 leading international port operators. This move aims to strengthen Iraq’s position on the regional and international trade map.
The ministry’s statement indicated that the completion rate of the Faw Port navigation channel reached approximately 92%, while the container yard reached approximately 94%, and the connecting road was 100% complete. The statement also indicated that work is progressing according to plan on the immersed tunnel project, which consists of 10 sections with a total length of 2,444 meters, of which 1,226 meters are underwater. This tunnel is a vital part of the port’s infrastructure.
The ministry confirmed that it is completing the necessary procedures to officially open the Grand Faw Port operation bid, in preparation for the start of competition between the selected international companies, which are among the largest companies specializing in port operations around the world. This development comes within the framework of the $17 billion “Development Road” project launched by Iraq in 2023. This project aims to develop the Grand Faw Port and connect it to a road and railway network extending to the Iraqi border with Turkey. This project is part of a vision to transform Iraq into a major logistics and trade hub linking Asia and Europe, rivaling the famous Suez Canal.
The Development Road project extends approximately 1,200 kilometers within Iraqi territory and includes the construction of an advanced road and railway network aimed at facilitating the movement of goods between Europe and the Gulf states. The project is expected to be implemented in three main phases, with the first phase completing in 2028, followed by the second phase five years later, and the third phase by 2050.
Observers believe this project represents a strategic opportunity for Iraq to strengthen its struggling economy, which has witnessed decades of turmoil and wars. It also contributes to attracting investment and strengthening Iraq’s role as a vital regional trade hub. Through the Grand Faw Port and the Development Road, Iraq hopes to improve its transport and trade infrastructure and open new horizons for economic growth and sustainable development.
