Investment framework and opportunities in Iraq

Procedures Relative to Foreign Investment

Freedom of Establishment: According to Iraqi law, a foreign investor is entitled to make investments in Iraq on terms no less favorable than those applicable to an Iraqi citizen, and the amount of foreign participation is not limited.
However, the Iraqi government reserves the right to screen foreign direct investment.
Acquisition of Holdings: Foreign investors are able to trade in shares and securities listed on the Iraqi Stock Exchange.
Obligation to Declare: Foreign investors interested in establishing an office in Iraq or bidding on a public tender are required to register as a foreign business with the Ministry of Trade’s Companies Registration Department.
Investors planning to do business only in the Kurdistan region can register with the Kurdistan Regional Government directly. Companies that intend to do business in both the IKR and Iraq must register with the Ministry of Trade.
Competent Organisation For the Declaration: General Commission for Taxation
Requests For Specific Authorisations: Iraq’s national investment law limits foreign direct and indirect ownership of most natural resources, particularly the extraction and processing of any natural resources.
In order to incorporate a company in Iraq, an investor must obtain a statement from an Iraqi bank showing a minimum capital deposit. All investors must also apply for an investment license from the appropriate national, regional or provincial investment commission.

Investment Aid Agency: National Investment Commission (NIC)
Tenders, Projects and Public Procurement: Tenders Info, Tenders in Iraq
Iraq Business News, Tenders in Iraq
Other Useful Resources: Kurdistan Board of Investment (KIB)

Any Comment About This Content? Report It to Us.