EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES and Axens Explore Strategic Cooperation in Refinery Development and Investment Opportunities in Iraq

September 9, 2026by EFI

EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES (EFI) is pleased to announce that a delegation from the company visited the headquarters of Axens in France for high-level technical and strategic discussions focused on refinery development, advanced refining technologies, and EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES’ investment plans and future energy projects in Iraq.

The meeting brought together representatives from both companies to explore potential areas of cooperation and to discuss opportunities for integrating advanced refining technologies into the development and modernization of Iraq’s downstream oil and gas sector.

Strategic Discussions on Refinery Development

During the meeting, the EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES delegation presented the company’s vision for the development of refinery projects in Iraq, including the modernization and upgrading of existing refinery facilities, the addition of new processing units, and the development of future downstream projects.

The discussions with Axens focused on identifying suitable technological solutions that could support the technical and economic objectives of these projects while improving refinery performance, operational efficiency, product quality, and overall value creation.

Particular attention was given to the potential application of advanced process technologies, process licensing, engineering support, and technology integration as part of EFI’s broader refinery development strategy.

Axens provides comprehensive solutions across the refinery lifecycle, including feasibility studies, process technologies and licensing, basic engineering, equipment and modular solutions, unit revamps and retrofits, start-up, and ongoing technical support.

EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES’ Investment Vision in Iraq

During the discussions, EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES presented its expanding portfolio of planned and prospective investments in Iraq, with particular emphasis on the development of the country’s refining and downstream industries.

EFI’s strategy is focused on developing projects that combine international technology, engineering expertise, investment capabilities, and long-term commercial value, with the objective of contributing to the modernization and expansion of Iraq’s industrial and energy infrastructure.

The company emphasized its intention to develop refinery projects based on internationally recognized technical standards and proven technologies, while ensuring that proposed investments are commercially viable and capable of delivering sustainable economic returns.

Exploring Advanced Refining Technologies

The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss Axens’ advanced technology portfolio and its potential application to EFI’s future projects in Iraq.

Areas of discussion included refinery upgrading, process optimization, advanced conversion technologies, clean fuels, energy efficiency, and the potential integration of new processing units into existing refinery configurations.

Axens’ refining portfolio includes technologies covering applications such as hydrocracking, catalytic reforming, hydrotreating, sulfur recovery, bottom-of-the-barrel conversion, and other advanced refining solutions.

The discussions were therefore aimed at establishing a strong technical foundation for evaluating the most appropriate technologies for each future project, according to feedstock characteristics, product requirements, refinery configuration, investment objectives, and economic considerations.

Building a Technology-Based Strategic Partnership

EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES and Axens discussed opportunities to establish a framework for continued cooperation in support of EFI’s refinery development and investment plans in Iraq.

Such cooperation could include technical consultations, technology evaluation, feasibility and development studies, process licensing, engineering support, and the involvement of additional international partners where required.

The objective is to ensure that future projects are developed through a structured approach that combines technology excellence, engineering reliability, commercial feasibility, and long-term operational performance.

A Strong Foundation for Future Projects in Iraq

The meeting represents an important step in EFI’s strategy to establish relationships with leading international technology providers and engineering organizations as the company advances its investment plans in Iraq.

The cooperation with Axens is particularly significant given Axens’ extensive international experience in refinery technologies and its previous involvement in major Iraqi refining projects. Axens has previously supplied process technologies for the Basrah Refinery Upgrading Project and has also been awarded technology licenses and basic design work for the planned Nassiriyarefinery project.

This existing technological experience in Iraq provides a strong basis for exploring future opportunities and supporting the development of new and upgraded refining facilities.

EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES: Developing Iraq’s Next Generation of Energy Projects

Commenting on the meeting, EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES stated:

“We highly value our discussions with Axens and appreciate the opportunity to present our investment vision and future refinery development plans in Iraq. We believe that cooperation with leading international technology companies is essential to developing efficient, reliable, and economically sustainable refining projects. Our objective is to combine international technology and expertise with our investment and project-development capabilities to create long-term value for Iraq’s energy sector.”

Moving Toward Future Cooperation

Following the meeting, EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES and Axens will continue discussions regarding potential areas of technical and commercial cooperation and the evaluation of suitable technologies for EFI’s future refinery and downstream projects in Iraq.

The companies will explore the appropriate technical and commercial frameworks required to advance potential projects, including the assessment of project requirements, technology options, economic considerations, and potential implementation strategies.

Commitment to Iraq’s Energy and Industrial Development

EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES remains committed to supporting the development of Iraq’s energy and industrial sectors through international partnerships, advanced technologies, strategic investment, and integrated project development.

The company’s cooperation with leading international technology providers such as Axensreflects EFI’s commitment to bringing global expertise and proven technological solutions to Iraq, supporting the modernization of existing refinery infrastructure and the development of new, efficient, and competitive downstream facilities.

EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES looks forward to building on the discussions with Axens and advancing opportunities that can contribute to the long-term development of Iraq’s refining industry and create sustainable technical and economic value for the country.

EMPIRE FUEL INDUSTRIES
Engineering Energy. Developing Industry. Building Iraq’s Future.