How does Agility serve the oil and gas industry in Iraq?
As the fifth largest oil producer in the world, logistics in Iraq must be geared around its economy. Agility has operated in Iraq for a number of years, supporting international oil companys (IOCs) directly in field development, in addition to oil and gas service companies in their scope of work. This may range from general freight forwarding services, encompassing international transport, customs clearance, and local delivery for a variety of kit, from hand-carry airfreights to charter services including heavy lift modules.
How secure is it to operate in a country that is rife with violence and instability?
Security incidents remain reasonably isolated, especially in the southern part of Iraq, where the bulk of our operations are active. We assess daily security reports to determine whether moving shipments around the country is feasible and safe. Whilst the political instability, oil price crash, and security situation in Iraq are challenges, Iraq can still be a positive country to operate in.
Which oil and gas clients does Agility currently work with in Iraq?
Agility has a number of clients in Iraq working in the oil and gas sector, covering a wide scope of activities. We have been active in Majnoon for more than five years, offering door-to-door freight forwarding, customs clearance, and transport activities. But we have also worked with a number of other high-profile clients, including Shell Iraq, Kogas, Baker Hughes, Turkish Petroleum, and Petrochina.
Why did Agility decide to open a Center of Excellence?
Agility understands the importance of developing local content in Iraq. We believe that by having an international, accredited training provider that can offer industry-standard training, we can support – and reduce costs for – IOCs, and improve local Iraqi companies that may not have the resources for personnel to be sent abroad to obtain the required accreditation. The Centre of Excellence will also help companies to reduce their expat presence, with a greater focus on local development. The training transcends a number of industries, but the clear health, safety, and environment focus reflects our own basis for operation in the country.
What has Agility invested in this new Centre of Excellence training facility?
Agility has made a significant investment in Iraq, with its facility at Rumaila, where the Center of Excellence has been developed. Agility already operates a strong local content strategy in its people investment, running at around 91%. The strategy is to develop this further by way of training engagement and, over time, release expat trainers and bring locals onboard. At present, the centre offers courses such as driving education, lifting and hoisting, and first aid. We are also working with organisations like the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport to provide other courses that will be fully accredited to degree level.
