Overview of the Iraqi Market

The Iraqi government is striving to build a robust economy that ensures a decent standard of living for its people by implementing massive projects aimed at rebuilding roads and bridges, developing infrastructure, and establishing renewable water and energy sources. We believe that the government’s vision will be realized through the expertise brought by foreign companies.

Iraq has a strong incentive to develop its oil and gas sector, including production fields, pipeline infrastructure, refineries, and petroleum derivatives industries. With the gradual improvement of political and security stability, Iraq is witnessing remarkable growth in its business environment, providing a strong incentive for foreign companies and investors to visit and explore the available opportunities.

At Troy Gate, we are fully aware of the challenges and opportunities in the Iraqi market. We take pride in offering integrated services, including licensing, fostering strong relationships with governmental entities, and executing projects with efficiency and professionalism.

At Troy Gate, we offer a wide range of services to help foreign companies succeed in the Iraqi market:

• Legal Licensing: Facilitating the acquisition of licenses and approvals from government authorities.
• Comprehensive Logistics Support: Including transportation, storage, and supply chain management to ensure safe and prompt delivery of materials.
• Financial Consulting: Providing flexible financial solutions and consulting services to enhance project sustainability.
• Coordination with Government Authorities: Establishing strong relationships to streamline operations and reduce bureaucratic obstacles.
• Technical and Administrative Support: Offering specialized consulting and administrative services to ensure efficient project execution.

Troy Gate is your trusted partner for navigating the Iraqi market and unlocking its potential. Let us help you turn opportunities into successful ventures.

The Oil Sector in Iraq

The oil sector plays a pivotal role in driving Iraq’s economic development, contributing approximately 55% of the country’s GDP according to the latest data from 2023. It also accounts for over 90% of the government’s financial revenues. Positive growth in oil production and rising oil prices serve as key drivers enabling the Iraqi government to increase investments in construction and infrastructure projects, enhance the balance of payments, meet import requirements, and support domestic consumption needs.

Studies indicate that Iraq has around 530 geological structures, of which only 115 have been drilled. Among these, 71 structures have proven significant oil reserves. To date, 71 oil fields have been discovered, but only 27 are currently being exploited. Among these, 10 fields are ranked among the largest oil fields globally.

In addition to oil, Iraq boasts competitive advantages in sulfur-related industries, including extensive production of nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers. The country also possesses significant silica reserves, offering promising opportunities for mining and chemical industries.

At Troy Gate for Trade and Logistics Services, we recognize the critical importance of the oil sector in Iraq and are committed to supporting foreign companies and investors seeking to capitalize on these promising opportunities. We provide a comprehensive range of services, including licensing, building relationships with government entities, project execution, and offering technical, legal, and administrative support to ensure the success of your investments and achieve sustainable returns in the Iraqi market.

Our services also include:

• Strategic planning and facilitating logistics operations.
• Providing precise feasibility studies.
• Professionally managing projects to achieve objectives efficiently.

Amid the continued growth of Iraq’s oil and gas sector, partnering with Troy Gate is your gateway to entering this promising market. With our extensive expertise and strong connections, we help you achieve successful and sustainable investments in the oil sector, maximizing returns on your ventures.

Incentives and Investment Opportunities in Infrastructure and Industrial Development Projects in Iraq

Iraq offers a wide range of incentives for investors in the infrastructure and industrial development sectors, enhancing the market's appeal and attracting capital. These incentives include:

• Tax Exemptions: The Iraqi Investment Law grants tax exemptions of up to 10 years for investors in infrastructure and industrial projects, reducing costs and increasing profitability.
• Land Allocation: The government provides designated land for infrastructure and industrial projects, with the option to lease it for up to 50 years, renewable, enabling long-term planning for investors.
• Government Financing and Support: The Iraqi government offers financial incentives, including low-interest loans or partial funding for certain strategic projects, supporting the implementation of large-scale initiatives in these sectors.
• Simplified Licensing and Procedures: Through the "one-stop shop" services provided by the Iraqi National Investment Commission, investors can expedite the acquisition of licenses and approvals, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles and saving time.
• Support for Local Employment: The Investment Law encourages the hiring of local labor while allowing the recruitment of foreign workers for specialized skills not available locally.
• Customs Exemptions: Investors benefit from customs exemptions on imported equipment and essential components for project implementation, reducing overall costs and improving investment viability.

These incentives, combined with Iraq's growing demand for infrastructure and industrial development, create an attractive environment for investors aiming to contribute to the country’s reconstruction and economic growth.

Stability and Iraq's Growing Investment Environment

Stability and a growing investment environment are critical factors in attracting investments and driving economic growth, and Iraq is a prime example of this transformation. In recent years, the Iraqi government has taken tangible steps to improve the investment climate and provide favorable conditions for both local and international investors, making Iraq one of the region's promising investment destinations.

Despite past challenges, the government has gradually achieved political stability and improved security in many areas, creating a conducive environment for investment. Additionally, the government has implemented economic and legal reforms aimed at improving the economic system and fostering growth across various sectors.

Government Reforms to Support Investment

• Simplified Investment Procedures: Reform programs have been implemented to improve the business environment, including streamlining government procedures for obtaining licenses and establishing projects, enhancing the tax system, and activating transparency mechanisms.
• Legal Reforms: Amendments to Investment Law No. 13 of 2006 align with investor needs, offering tax exemptions, land acquisition facilitation, and legal guarantees to protect investment projects from expropriation or nationalization.
• Tax and Customs Exemptions: The government provides tax exemptions for investment projects that contribute to economic improvement, along with customs exemptions on imported equipment for project purposes.
• Incentives for Foreign Labor: The law permits the use of specialized foreign labor for major projects, enhancing the quality of project execution.
• Land Allocation for Major Projects: The government allocates strategic land for investment projects with lease terms of up to 50 years, renewable, supporting long-term planning for investors.

Diversifying the National Economy

• Expanding Green Projects: Including renewable energy initiatives.
• Developing the Tourism Sector: Attracting investments in tourism and hospitality projects.
• Supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Providing incentives to develop SMEs and increase employment opportunities.
• Investing in Financial Infrastructure: Enhancing banking systems and capital markets to facilitate financing and encourage foreign investments.

Through these reforms and initiatives, the Iraqi government aims to create an attractive investment environment that supports economic development and achieves sustainable growth.