General Company for Ports of Iraq

Shipping Arabia, October 25, 2026 – The General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) has reviewed progress on Japanese loan port projects, including plans for a new floating dock and shipyard city. The developments form part of Iraq’s efforts to modernize port infrastructure, strengthen operational capabilities and improve maritime services.

GCPI Director General Abdullah Ati Abdullah chaired a meeting with representatives of the Japanese loan program and relevant company department heads. The discussions focused on project progress, implementation requirements and completion rates, alongside plans to advance the developments in line with the company’s port modernization objectives.

The meeting also examined how the projects would support infrastructure expansion and improve the operational readiness of Iraqi ports.

Japanese Loan Port Projects Include Floating Dock and Shipyard City

A central focus of the meeting was the assessment of a proposed location for a new floating dock and discussions surrounding the planned shipyard city project.

Participants reviewed the infrastructure requirements necessary to support both developments and ensure their integration with existing port expansion and modernization plans.

The proposed facilities aim to strengthen ship maintenance and repair services, improve the efficiency of marine operations and enhance the capabilities of Iraq’s maritime infrastructure.

In addition, the projects are intended to improve the readiness of Iraqi ports to accommodate growing maritime transport demand. Their development forms part of broader efforts to modernize port facilities and expand the range of services available to the maritime sector.

The discussions also addressed the need to align supporting infrastructure with the operational requirements of the planned facilities, ensuring coordination between individual projects and the wider port development program.

GCPI Emphasizes Project Coordination and Implementation

The meeting highlighted the importance of coordination among GCPI departments responsible for implementing the Japanese loan port projects.

Participants emphasized the need to monitor implementation stages, assess progress against project requirements and maintain coordination between ongoing developments and future infrastructure plans.

These efforts align with the directives of Iraq’s Minister of Transport, Wahab Al-Hasani, concerning the advancement of development projects and the strengthening of transport infrastructure.

The meeting also reinforced the importance of integrating current port projects with longer-term development plans to support sustainable modernization across Iraq’s maritime sector.

Through the proposed floating dock, shipyard city and associated infrastructure improvements, GCPI aims to strengthen ship repair capabilities, enhance marine services and support the continued development of Iraqi ports.

Source: Iraqi Ministry of Transport / General Company for Ports of Iraq

Shipping Arabia, October 24, 2026 – The Iraqi Supreme Maritime Authority has inaugurated a new Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) system to monitor and regulate vessel movements within Iraq’s territorial waters. The project aims to strengthen maritime safety and security, improve navigational efficiency, and enhance the management of vessel arrivals and departures.

The inauguration marks a development in Iraq’s efforts to modernize its maritime surveillance capabilities and strengthen operational oversight of shipping activities. The system will support vessel traffic management while improving coordination and information exchange across the country’s maritime sector.

The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Director General of the General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI), alongside representatives of the Arabian Gulf Academy for Maritime Studies, the Iraqi Navy and the Border Guard Command.

Iraq’s Vessel Traffic Services System to Improve Maritime Operations

Ali Abdul Latif Al-Tamimi, Director General of the Iraqi Supreme Maritime Authority, said the project aligns with the Ministry of Transport’s directives to develop the country’s technical and operational capabilities.

According to Al-Tamimi, the new VTS system will improve vessel monitoring and verification of ship movements, contributing to stronger maritime security and supporting commercial shipping activities.

The system is designed to improve the organization of vessel traffic in Iraqi territorial waters while enhancing navigational safety and reducing operational risks. It will also strengthen maritime security measures aimed at preventing illegal activities and protecting critical maritime infrastructure.

Furthermore, the project supports efforts to safeguard the marine environment by improving oversight of shipping activities and strengthening the management of vessel movements.

The Authority expects these improvements to contribute to more efficient maritime operations and facilitate the movement of commercial vessels through Iraqi waters.

Strategic Importance of Iraq’s Maritime Location

Al-Tamimi emphasized Iraq’s geographical position along the Shatt al-Arab waterway and the Arabian Gulf, highlighting the strategic role of the country’s ports in connecting the national economy with international markets.

He explained that developing maritime surveillance systems is essential to improving the management of shipping movements and maintaining appropriate safety and security standards.

The new VTS system will also support regulatory procedures and improve information exchange among relevant maritime stakeholders. These capabilities are expected to facilitate smoother navigational and commercial traffic while strengthening the efficiency of maritime operations.

According to the Authority, improvements in vessel traffic management and maritime oversight will also help support investment opportunities in Iraq’s maritime sector.

Alignment With International Maritime Standards

The Iraqi Supreme Maritime Authority highlighted the importance of adopting modern technologies and benefiting from international experience in managing vessel traffic.

Al-Tamimi said the project forms part of efforts to keep pace with technological developments in the maritime industry while strengthening the country’s technical and operational capabilities.

The Authority also emphasized the importance of implementing maritime monitoring and traffic management measures in accordance with applicable international laws, agreements and standards.

These include the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), each within its respective scope of application.

Through the introduction of the VTS system, Iraq aims to improve maritime oversight, strengthen navigational safety and security, and support the efficient movement of vessels serving its ports and territorial waters.

Source: Iraqi Ministry of Transport

Shipping Arabia, October 23, 2026 – Iraq’s Maritime Security Committee held its 27th meeting at the headquarters of the General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI), focusing on maritime security in Iraqi territorial waters and procedures regulating vessel movements to and from the country’s ports.

The meeting was chaired by Dr. Hazem Al-Hafadhi, Administrative Undersecretary at Iraq’s Ministry of Transport, with GCPI Director General Abdullah Ati Abdullah and members of the committee in attendance.

Discussions focused on security matters concerning Iraqi territorial waters, mechanisms for regulating vessel entry and departure, and the implementation of existing measures to maintain the smooth flow of maritime traffic.

Maritime Security Committee Reviews Vessel Traffic Procedures

The committee examined procedures governing ship movements in Iraqi waters, emphasizing compliance with applicable maritime regulations and instructions.

Participants also reviewed the measures currently in place to support navigational safety and security while maintaining orderly vessel movements.

The discussions addressed coordination among authorities responsible for maritime security, particularly regarding the protection of Iraqi territorial waters and the implementation of established security procedures.

Coordination to Protect Iraqi Territorial Waters

The 27th meeting formed part of ongoing coordination among Iraqi authorities involved in maritime security and the management of vessel movements.

The committee’s work focuses on monitoring the measures necessary to protect the country’s territorial waters, strengthen maritime navigation safety and maintain compliance with existing regulations.

These efforts aim to ensure the safe and orderly movement of vessels entering and departing Iraqi ports while supporting the continuity of maritime operations.

Source: General Company for Ports of Iraq

Shipping Arabia, October 21, 2026 – Iraq’s General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) has identified the completion of ongoing works at Umm Qasr North Port, particularly its gate development project, as a key operational priority. The initiative aims to improve the movement of cargo and trucks, streamline port procedures, and enhance operational efficiency.

The priority was highlighted during an internal management meeting chaired by GCPI Director General Abdullah Aati Abdullah on October 18, 2026. Separately, a senior Ministry of Transport official visited the company to review operational matters and discuss development priorities across Iraq’s port sector.

Umm Qasr North Port Gate Project Among Key Priorities

During a meeting with department and division heads, Abdullah reviewed upcoming work plans and outlined the company’s financial, technical, and administrative priorities.

The discussions focused on accelerating project implementation and strengthening institutional performance. Abdullah emphasized the importance of coordinating activities across departments and ensuring that management teams work collectively toward shared operational objectives.

A central priority is completing ongoing infrastructure works at Umm Qasr North Port, particularly the gate development project.

The project is intended to improve the organization of cargo and truck movements entering and leaving the port. It also aims to facilitate smoother traffic flows and strengthen the efficiency of operational procedures within the facility.

Abdullah stressed the importance of completing these works as part of the company’s efforts to improve port operations and accelerate the implementation of priority projects.

GCPI Strengthens Administrative Coordination and Oversight

The management meeting also addressed internal administrative procedures and institutional accountability.

Abdullah called for closer coordination between departments and divisions, emphasizing the importance of unified efforts and teamwork in implementing the company’s operational plans.

He also highlighted the need to address observations raised by Iraq’s Federal Board of Supreme Audit through approved legal and administrative procedures.

The measures are intended to strengthen compliance with transparency and accountability standards while improving the effectiveness of the company’s administrative operations.

The discussions formed part of GCPI’s efforts to establish clear priorities and improve coordination between its technical, financial, and administrative functions.

Ministry of Transport Reviews Iraqi Port Operations

In a separate development, Dr. Hazem Al-Hafadhi, Administrative Undersecretary at Iraq’s Ministry of Transport, visited GCPI headquarters to review operational and administrative matters.

The visit followed directives from Transport Minister Wahb Al-Hassani calling for field-level monitoring of ministry-affiliated organizations and assessments of their operational requirements.

During the visit, Al-Hafadhi met with GCPI Director General Abdullah Aati Abdullah to discuss the company’s activities, key operational matters, and priorities for the upcoming period.

The meeting, held at the Martyr Basil Abdul Hamid Hall, examined operational and administrative issues alongside requirements for improving institutional performance.

Discussions also addressed measures to increase workplace efficiency and strengthen the effectiveness of procedures across the port sector.

Both officials emphasized the importance of accelerating the review and follow-up of priority matters to support smoother workflows and improve the performance of Iraqi ports.

The management meetings underline GCPI’s focus on completing ongoing port infrastructure projects, improving administrative coordination, and strengthening operational procedures across Iraq’s maritime sector.

Source: General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI)

Shipping Arabia, October 16, 2026 – Chief Engineer Abdullah Ati Abdullah has officially assumed his duties as Director General of the General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI), succeeding Capt. Alaa Al-Aqili. The leadership transition follows official orders issued by the relevant authorities.

Abdullah takes over the leadership of the company following a professional career within GCPI, where he progressed through various positions and gained engineering, administrative and management experience.

His appointment comes as the company continues its efforts to develop Iraq’s maritime transport sector and advance strategic port infrastructure projects, particularly the Al Faw Grand Port project.

New Director General Brings Experience From Within GCPI

Abdullah has built his professional career within the General Company for Ports of Iraq, gaining experience across engineering and administrative responsibilities.

Throughout his career, he developed his technical and management capabilities while progressing through the company’s organizational structure.

He also served as an elected member of GCPI’s Board of Directors, having secured the confidence of company employees through an internal election.

His professional background and previous involvement in the company’s management provide experience relevant to his new responsibilities as Director General.

Al Faw Grand Port Remains a Key Strategic Project

The leadership transition comes amid expectations that the new Director General will contribute to the continued development of the General Company for Ports of Iraq and improvements in its performance.

The company plays an important role in supporting Iraq’s maritime transport and shipping activities, with ongoing development efforts aimed at strengthening the country’s port sector.

Among its major strategic initiatives, the Al Faw Grand Port project remains a central priority. The project was specifically highlighted in the announcement as one of the key developments expected to continue under the company’s new leadership.

The appointment carries expectations of maintaining progress on strategic projects and further developing the company’s activities. These efforts are intended to strengthen Iraq’s economic and commercial position through continued investment in its maritime and port sectors.

Source: Iraqi Ministry of Transport / General Company for Ports of Iraq

Shipping Arabia, October 2, 2026 – The General Company for Ports of Iraq marked World Maritime Day with a ceremony honoring maritime personnel for their contributions to the company’s marine and navigation activities and their continued work in supporting the development of Iraq’s maritime sector.

The event brought together Technical Deputy Director General Eng. Haitham Kazem, directors of maritime departments and company employees. During the ceremony, maritime personnel were recognized for their efforts, continued service and contributions to the company’s maritime and navigational operations.

Maritime Personnel Recognized for Their Role

Kazem said seafarers represent a fundamental pillar of the global maritime transport system and play a central role across the sectors connected to it. He added that the World Maritime Day event was held in line with directives from Transport Minister Wahab Al-Hassani and serves as an incentive to continue developing the company and raising performance standards across its maritime operations.

He also praised the company’s maritime personnel for carrying out their responsibilities despite the risks and challenges associated with the nature of their work.

Kazem called on employees in the maritime sector to maintain compliance with the standards and requirements adopted by international maritime organizations. He also stressed the importance of stronger cooperation and coordination with supervisors and officials to support accuracy and professionalism in maritime operations.

Regional Developments Affect Maritime Navigation

Zain Al-Abideen Adel, a port captain and the Ministry of Transport’s representative to the International Organization for Marine Aids to Navigation, congratulated maritime personnel on World Maritime Day and recognized their contribution to the sector.

Adel said this year’s observance comes as the maritime industry faces exceptional challenges arising from political and security developments in the region. He noted that these developments have had consequences for maritime navigation.

The ceremony highlighted the role of maritime personnel in maintaining marine and navigation activities while the sector continues to operate amid regional challenges.

Source: General Company for Ports of Iraq

Shipping Arabia, September 28, 2026 – The General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) has announced that maritime pilot Capt. Saif Ghalib Radi has been accepted as an accredited IMO IMSAS auditor under the International Maritime Organization’s Member State Audit Scheme, marking a new international achievement for Iraq’s maritime sector.

GCPI said the development reflects the growing presence of qualified Iraqi maritime professionals at the international level. The company described Radi’s acceptance into the audit scheme as an important addition to Iraq’s national maritime expertise.

The IMO Member State Audit Scheme, known as IMSAS, provides the framework under which IMO member states are audited in relation to their implementation of applicable maritime requirements. GCPI said the acceptance of one of its personnel into the scheme also reflects efforts to strengthen cooperation and communication with international maritime organizations.

Support for Iraqi Maritime Expertise

According to GCPI, the achievement was supported by Iraqi Minister of Transport Wahab Al-Hassani and followed by the senior management of the General Company for Ports of Iraq as part of efforts to enable national maritime professionals and develop their specialized capabilities.

The company also highlighted the role of Capt. Mazen Dawood Salman Al-Kaabi, maritime attaché at the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in the United Kingdom. GCPI said his efforts helped strengthen coordination and communication with international maritime organizations and supported greater participation by Iraqi professionals in international maritime forums.

The company said the acceptance of an Iraqi IMO IMSAS auditor demonstrates the value of developing specialized national expertise while expanding engagement with international maritime institutions.

GCPI Links Achievement to Maritime Standards

GCPI said the development supports its efforts to strengthen compliance with recognized maritime standards and conventions. It also reflects the company’s focus on building technical and professional capabilities among its personnel.

The company added that investment in qualified human resources remains part of the wider efforts of the Ministry of Transport and GCPI to develop Iraq’s maritime sector.

According to the company, strengthening the skills and international exposure of Iraqi maritime professionals can also reinforce Iraq’s presence within international maritime institutions.

The acceptance of Capt. Saif Ghalib Radi as an IMO IMSAS auditor therefore represents both an individual professional achievement and an addition to the specialized maritime expertise available within Iraq’s port sector.

Source: General Company for Ports of Iraq

Shipping Arabia, September 28, 2026 – Iraq’s State Company for Maritime Transport participated in a joint meeting with maritime, port and border authorities to review complaints concerning procedures taken against shipowners and their agents.

The meeting brought together the State Company for Maritime Transport, the Iraqi Supreme Maritime Authority, the Fourth Region Border Command/Coastal Border Force and the General Company for Ports of Iraq.

The discussions were held under the direction of Minister of Transport Wahab Salman Al-Hassani and the supervision of State Company for Maritime Transport Director General Ahmed Jassim Al-Asadi. Assistant Director General for Technical Affairs Amir Fadhil Abdullah also attended the meeting.

Authorities Discuss Procedures Related to Complaints

Participants reviewed the measures taken in connection with the complaints submitted concerning shipowners and their agents.

The discussions focused on addressing the issues raised, organizing procedures and strengthening coordination between the authorities involved. The meeting brought together maritime, port and security bodies concerned with the matters under review.

Maritime and Security Coordination

Participants emphasized the importance of maintaining cooperation and coordination between Iraq’s maritime and security institutions.

They said continued coordination would help facilitate procedures and protect the interests of the parties concerned, while ensuring that actions remain in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

Source: State Company for Maritime Transport

Shipping Arabia, September 25, 2026 – Iraq’s Ministry of Transport is reviewing progress across its port development programme and measures to accelerate delayed projects as the country works to integrate its maritime infrastructure with the Development Road and strengthen its position as a regional transport and trade corridor.

The review was led by Dr. Hazem Radi Al-Hafadhi, Administrative Undersecretary at the Ministry of Transport, with Dr. Abbas Imran Musa, Director General of the Planning and Follow-up Department, and officials from the General Company for Ports of Iraq.

Officials examined implementation stages and completion rates across projects included in the government programme, together with obstacles affecting individual developments and the approvals and coordination required to move construction forward.

The meeting placed particular emphasis on projects aimed at developing Iraq’s port system and increasing its contribution to cargo movement, trade and regional transport.

Maritime components connected with the Development Road were also reviewed, with officials discussing coordination between the ports company and other government entities to align technical and implementation requirements.

The Development Road is intended to integrate Iraq’s maritime gateway at Grand Faw Port with new road and railway infrastructure extending north toward Türkiye and onward to European markets. Iraq and Türkiye recently completed a draft framework covering transport infrastructure development and implementation stages for the project.

Iraq has simultaneously been expanding its international transit network, opening seven new routes during the first eight months of 2026 as part of efforts to connect its ports and land transport infrastructure within a broader multimodal logistics system.

The ministry said closer coordination with relevant authorities will be required to resolve outstanding requirements and accelerate port projects considered central to Iraq’s future transport network.

Source: Iraq Ports Media

Shipping Arabia, September 20, 2026 – Iraq’s General Company for Ports of Iraq (GCPI) is developing a series of in-house digital systems for port management, asset monitoring and administrative processes, as the company expands automation across its operations.

The systems are being designed and programmed by GCPI’s Information Technology Department using Iraqi technical expertise, with several applications already developed and others undergoing testing.

Among the latest developments is an upgraded buoy management system, which introduces geolocation functionality and links individual buoys to an interactive map. The system is intended to improve monitoring accuracy and provide faster access to information on the location and status of navigational assets.

GCPI’s IT team presented the system during a technical workshop alongside several internally developed platforms supporting administrative and workforce management.

These include a planning accounts system, employee attendance and departure platform and an automated system for calculating overtime payments.

The programme forms part of a broader effort to shift port-related data and internal procedures toward electronic platforms, reducing reliance on manual processes while improving the speed and accuracy of information available to management.

The digitalization initiative is being implemented under directives from Iraqi Transport Minister Wahb Al-Hassani, with the ministry seeking wider use of automation and digital technologies across its companies and departments.

GCPI said the systems are intended to improve institutional efficiency, data management, transparency and decision-making as Iraq continues modernizing the operational and administrative infrastructure supporting its port sector.

Source: Iraq Ports Media