As efforts to expand oil production in Iraq continue, steps are being taken to plug skills gaps the country faces in boosting output.

According to news publication Arabian Oil and Gas, skills gaps have emerged across a number of areas, including project management, supervisory and engineering functions.

However, the oil ministry has taken steps to ensure that the international oil corporations that have signed deals to work in the country invest in training local workforces.

"Given Iraq's limited cash availability, the Iraq oil ministry has ensured that a set amount be spent on training the Iraqi population, whether onsite or working within the offices of the state oil companies," the news provider said, adding that such plans form part of the contracts international oil companies have signed to work in the area.

Last month, some of the world's largest oilfield services providers confirmed plans to develop new centres in Iraq to help with the training of local staff.

Oil and Gas Directory: Training and Development