The completion of major repairs and upgrades to Tanks 25 and 26 at the Kharg oil terminal was announced Saturday during a visit by Hamid Bovard, CEO of the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC). Each tank has a capacity of 1 million barrels and has been returned to service after full reconstruction.

Tank 26 underwent a comprehensive overhaul, including the replacement of its roof and floor, roof drain systems, earthing systems, and containment basins. Safety systems such as cooling, foam suppression, geomembrane and geotextile layers were installed, along with a full repainting of the tank’s exterior and interior. Tank 25 was also restored after sediment removal, floor plate replacement, roof repairs, cathodic protection system installation, redesign of roof drains, repainting, and the construction of containment basins and safety systems.

 Strengthening oil infrastructure with domestic expertise 

Hamid Bovard, deputy oil minister, said the additional 2 million barrels of storage capacity will enhance Iran’s export flexibility, facilitate upstream production, and reduce ancillary costs such as tank leasing. He described the project as adding significant value to the oil industry.

Bovard also highlighted the refurbishment of five decommissioned vessels, which will support ship loading and docking operations at the Kharg terminal, and thanked all those involved in the project.

The NIOC CEO noted that the project was completed entirely by domestic contractors and workforce, demonstrating Iran’s high technical and engineering capabilities in oil infrastructure.

 Expanding Iran’s strategic oil infrastructure 

Abbas Asadrouz, CEO of the Iranian Oil Terminals Company, said the commissioning of the two crude storage tanks symbolizes the expertise of domestic specialists and marks a key step in developing Iran’s strategic oil infrastructure.

“This project not only boosts the country’s storage capacity but also reflects the capability of local experts and national determination to expand Iran’s oil infrastructure,” Asadrouz said.

He emphasized the project’s strategic importance, stating that increased storage capacity—especially amid complex global energy market conditions—strengthens Iran’s export stability, production management, and global market position.

Asadrouz also stressed full compliance with safety and environmental standards, calling the project a clear example of Iran’s resistance economy policies and support for domestic production.