Iraq informs buyers that crude oil is available for shipment, stating that the country's oil can pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iraq has told traders and refiners in Asia that they may load the country’s crude oil, because after Iran granted exemptions, the ships carrying Iraqi crude can now pass through the Strait of Hormuz. However, this move will test buyers’ confidence in this security assurance.

In a notice issued on Sunday, Iraq’s State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO) cited media reports saying that shipments of Iraqi crude are now “free from any potential restrictions.”

The agency asked buyers to submit oil-lifting plans, including vessel information and requested shipment volumes, and said that all loading terminals, including Basra, are “fully operational.” Customers were asked to respond within 24 hours.

SOMO did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It is still unclear whether this reported arrangement applies to all Iraqi crude oil or only to the country’s tankers. Buyers have been cautious about it.

Over the weekend, Iran said Iraq is now allowed an exemption from shipping restrictions around this key waterway. An Iranian military spokesperson did not specify which tankers or cargoes would be included in the exemption, but the tanker Ocean Thunder, carrying 1 million barrels of Iraqi crude, passed through the narrow waterway on Sunday.

海量资讯、精准解读，尽在新浪财经APP

责任编辑：何云