Iraq Aims to Expand Non-Oil Exports and Open New Markets for Local Products

The Ministry of Commerce announced a governmental drive to strengthen the base of non-oil exports and open new markets for local products, indicating that dates and cement lead the list of goods in which Iraq possesses a clear production advantage, making them qualified for global competition. Ministry Spokesperson Mohammed Hanoun affirmed in a statement to the official newspaper that the ministry's focus is on expanding the export of these products, especially those where Iraq enjoys a competitive edge in production and quality. These primarily include dates and cement, in addition to a variety of agricultural products, food industries, and manufactured goods. Hanoun noted that the ministry is diligently working to make optimal use of the export support fund, as well as establishing new and diverse channels and markets to receive local products at both regional and international levels. Hanoun added that non-oil exports still require further development and enhancement compared to Iraq's current total trade volume. Therefore, the ministry is striving to gradually increase their contribution to the national economy by supporting local products, improving their competitiveness in various markets, and providing them with new and promising markets. This approach aims to diversify national income sources and enhance Iraq's standing and active presence in regional and international markets. In a related context concerning the regulation of imports in the country, Hanoun clarified that the ministry employs precise and clear criteria in handling this file, primarily linked to protecting local products, regulating the internal market, and maintaining price stability to serve both consumers and producers. He emphasized that any decision regarding the addition of new items to prohibition lists or the imposition of import restrictions undergoes thorough and extensive study and close coordination with specialized and relevant sectoral entities, and is never taken arbitrarily or haphazardly. He continued by stating that the ministry constantly considers the volume of local production and its actual capacity to meet internal market needs, as well as the availability of materials and their competitive prices. The ministry also closely monitors the movement of goods entering local markets and effectively coordinates with relevant authorities to address any harmful trade practices that might negatively affect national products. He pointed out that Iraq has recently implemented effective and well-considered measures to protect several local products from unfair competition they might face. Concerning the planned import regulation measures before the end of 2026, Hanoun revealed the ministry's ongoing plans and directions to develop relevant mechanisms and enhance the role of the private sector and local products in the economic process. He confirmed that any new measures or decisions would be officially and transparently announced following the completion of necessary studies and obtaining the required formal and customary approvals.