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Iraq is making significant progress toward joining the World Trade Organization (WTO), marking a pivotal step in its economic reform agenda.
๐ฎ๐ถ Resumption of Accession Talks
After a hiatus of nearly 16 years, Iraq resumed formal negotiations for WTO membership in July 2024. Trade Minister Atheer Dawood Salman Al-Ghurairi led a high-level delegation to Geneva, where the third meeting of the Working Party on Iraq’s accession was held. This meeting was the first since 2008, signaling a renewed commitment to integrating Iraq into the global trading system. ๅทดๅฃซ็ๅ ฑina.iq+6wto.org+6ina.iq+6
๐ Strategic Importance
Minister Al-Ghurairi emphasized that Iraq's accession to the WTO is crucial for stimulating economic growth, enhancing transparency, and encouraging foreign investment. He outlined the government's commitment to economic liberalization, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services. The accession is seen as a means to diversify the economy and align Iraq's trade policies with international standards. wto.org+5ina.iq+5ina.iq+5
๐ Regional and Global Support
The WTO's Deputy Director-General, Zhang Xiangchen, highlighted the significance of Iraq's accession for regional integration and global trade dynamics. Saudi Ambassador to the WTO, Saqar Abdullah Al-Muqbel, also expressed optimism, noting that Iraq is one of the largest economies outside the multilateral trading system. The support from regional and global partners underscores Iraq's strategic importance in the international economic landscape. wto.orgwto.org+3ina.iq+3ina.iq+3
⏳ Next Steps
The fourth round of negotiations is anticipated in the first quarter of 2025. Iraq is expected to submit revised legislative documents and continue discussions on market access for goods and services. The WTO Secretariat plans to organize a Round Table to discuss Iraq's technical assistance needs, further facilitating the accession process. ina.iq+1ina.iq+1wto.org
Iraq's renewed efforts to join the WTO reflect its determination to modernize its economy and enhance its role in the global market. The ongoing negotiations are a testament to the country's commitment to economic reform and international cooperation.
