Friday, December 26, 2025
SUDANI DIRECTS A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION AND RESTRUCTURING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION SYSTEMS IN IRAQ
SUDANI DIRECTS A COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION AND RESTRUCTURING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION SYSTEMS IN IRAQ
December 18, 2025
On Thursday, outgoing Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani directed that a comprehensive evaluation and restructuring of all tax administration systems in Iraq, including their specific policies, be carried out.
This came during his chairmanship of a special meeting to follow up on the implementation of the comprehensive tax system governance, in the presence of senior staff of the General Authority for Taxes and relevant institutions, and representatives of the consulting firm “Oliver Wyman”, according to a statement issued by the Sudanese Media Office.
The statement said that the meeting reviewed previous efforts to follow up on the comprehensive development of the tax administration sector through reform steps, most notably attracting specialized international companies to work on the integrated automation of tax departments, and a detailed presentation was given to these companies.
Al-Sudani also directed the Supreme Committee for Tax Reform to study the Oliver Wyman program in planning and implementation and to submit a detailed report on it, as this program included an integrated work methodology for reforming and developing tax administration, as a fundamental and pivotal pillar for increasing sustainable government revenues, in order to reach a tax administration that is characterized by transparency and fairness, and contributes to raising Iraq’s financial and investment ranking.
According to the statement, the meeting reviewed a number of similar experiences in Arab countries, the extent of development that has occurred in their work, and the amount of tax increases achieved during the first year of implementation.
Iraq had the highest income tax rate among Arab countries for the year 2024, according to infoflix.
Recent economic data seen by Shafaq News Agency shows that Mauritania topped the list of Arab countries in terms of the highest income tax rates for 2024 at 40%, followed by Morocco at 38%, then Algeria and Tunisia at 35% each. Egypt came in fifth place with 26%, followed by Lebanon with 25%, followed by Syria in seventh place with 22%, while Jordan came in eighth place with 20%. Iraq and Sudan came in last place with 15% each, reflecting a clear disparity in tax policies among Arab countries.
Economic experts believe that the decline in the income tax rate in Iraq is due to ongoing efforts to attract investments and stimulate the private sector, in light of the economic challenges facing the country, especially the heavy reliance on oil revenues.
The tax system in Iraq also continues to face difficulties in implementation and modernization, which affects the state’s ability to maximize non-oil revenues.
At the end of August, Al-Sudani confirmed that Iraq faces a major economic challenge, namely the priority of reform and the transition to a diversified economy, noting that the size of public spending in each fiscal year amounts to about 150 trillion dinars, compared to tax revenues that do not exceed 3 trillion.
In a speech during the tax conference for economic development and revitalizing the investment environment held in Baghdad, Al-Sudani said, “The general budget amounts to about 150 trillion dinars annually, compared to tax revenues that do not exceed 3 trillion, and these figures need to be examined and reviewed.”
He added that “reform decisions in the economic field were previously exploited within the framework of slogans and pressure on official institutions,” noting that “the government sponsored the tax system reform conference in December 2023, which came out with a package of important recommendations.”
He explained that “Cabinet Resolution (24074 of 2024) put the tax reform packages into effect, followed by the formation of the Supreme Committee for Monitoring Tax Reform,” indicating that “the efforts resulted in international interest from investors in tax reform in Iraq.”
Al-Sudani added that “the government worked to increase non-oil resources despite great caution due to the absence of a supportive political and social environment,” noting that “the index rose from 7% in 2022 to 14% in 2024.”
He noted that “tax revenues increased by 26% during 2024 compared to the previous year, and by 3% in the first half of this year compared to the same period last year,” stressing that “digital transformation has contributed to enhancing tax capacity and accuracy.”
Al-Sudani explained that “the tax inquiry platform has eliminated cases of name similarity, delays, corruption, and undermining the taxpayer’s confidence in tax procedures,” adding that “the system for tax payment receipts and their matching has been completed electronically after it was previously paper-based.”
He affirmed that “there is ongoing communication with reputable international companies to work towards achieving the highest international standards in the tax system,” stressing that “the draft of the new income tax law has adopted international standards, while adhering to social justice and tax allowances for those with lower incomes.”
He pointed out that “the new law that will be enacted soon will be business-friendly and supportive of the green economy and emerging projects,” indicating that “the Supreme Committee for Tax Reform has completed the policy paper on tax accounting for oil companies to address the problems and obstacles to their work.”
Al-Sudani added that “unifying tax procedures between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq has facilitated the processing of tax files for universities and private banks,” stressing that “the reforms being achieved represent a message to the citizen to support his political system and manage resources in the best possible way.”
He concluded by saying: “We will not allow a tax increase that leads to a business-repelling climate or comes at the expense of fairness in taxation.”
Shafaq.com
Sandy Ingram Update: Iraq’s Militia Crisis, Sovereignty Under Pressure & Economic Consequences
International news feeds have suddenly intensified with alarming developments out of Iraq. According to Sandy Ingram, conflicting positions among Iran-backed militias are placing Iraq in a dangerous position—politically, economically, and diplomatically.
This situation highlights why security, sovereignty, and economic confidence are deeply interconnected.
As always, this update reflects analysis and opinion, not financial advice.
⚠️ Disclaimer
All commentary is based on opinion and interpretation of public information. Geopolitical situations evolve rapidly. Always consult professional advisors before making financial decisions.
Breaking Developments: Militias Split on Disarmament
Conflicting Signals from Iran-Backed Groups
According to Sandy Ingram:
Some Iran-backed militias are saying:
“Yes, we will disarm.”
Others are stating clearly:
They will not give up their weapons
Certain groups have reportedly:
Sent letters
Conditioning disarmament on specific political leaders being elected president and prime minister
This dynamic places Iraq in an extremely fragile position.
🌍 Featured Snippet: Why Iraq Is Being “Held Hostage”
When armed groups demand political outcomes in exchange for disarmament, the state loses full authority. According to Sandy Ingram, this effectively means Iraq’s sovereignty is being held hostage, undermining both governance and economic stability.
Regional Tensions & the Risk of Escalation
Israel, the U.S., and Iraq’s Dilemma
Sandy warns:
Israel has allegedly wanted to strike Iraq for over a year
The U.S. government has so far restrained Israel
However, the U.S. may be losing its ability to manage the situation
“It doesn’t look like the US government can handle it.”
This creates a dangerous scenario:
Iraq forcing disarmament could trigger civil war
Israel intervening could trigger regional escalation
Neither option is acceptable
Why Forced Disarmament Is So Risky
According to Sandy Ingram:
Forcing militias to give up weapons abruptly could cause:
Immediate internal conflict
Large-scale instability
But allowing militias to remain armed:
Undermines state authority
Weakens investor confidence
Signals divided sovereignty
This is a lose-lose scenario if mishandled.
Economic Impact: Why Investors Are Watching Closely
Two Centers of Power = Fragile Economy
Sandy highlights a core issue:
A country cannot fully move forward with:
One government
And independent armed groups
Key consequences:
Difficulty forming stable governments
Reduced foreign investment
Lack of public confidence
Fragile economic outlook
“As long as weapons remain outside government control, Iraq’s sovereignty appears divided.”
Some Hope, But No Clear Path Yet
Sandy notes:
Some militias are signaling flexibility
Others are digging in deeper
The Iraqi government is caught:
Trying to assert authority
Without triggering chaos
“I believe things will work out, but right now I don’t see how.”
Q&A – Key Takeaways for Observers
Q: Why does militia disarmament matter for the economy?
A: Stability and rule of law are essential for investment, growth, and currency confidence.
Q: Can Iraq move forward without resolving this?
A: Long-term stability remains uncertain as long as armed groups operate independently.
Q: Is foreign intervention likely?
A: Sandy suggests the risk exists if Iraq cannot assert control internally.
Q: Does this affect monetary reform and the dinar?
A: Security and sovereignty are foundational—without them, economic confidence remains fragile.
Final Thoughts
Sandy Ingram’s analysis underscores a hard truth:
Economic reform cannot outpace political and security reform
Sovereignty must be unified
Stability must be credible—not conditional
How Iraq navigates this moment will shape:
Its political future
Its economic credibility
Its ability to function as a fully sovereign nation
For now, patience, awareness, and hope remain essential.
“Send positive thoughts and energy to Iraq. They need all they can get.”
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Sandy Ingram
The international news feeds just blew up...The Iran backed militants, some of them are saying, 'Yes, we will disarm.' But other Iran backed militants are saying, 'No way in hell are we going to give up our weapons.' They even sent a letter...Some of the Iran backed militant groups will disarm if certain people are elected president and prime minister.
That means Iraq is now being held hostage...This is a mess...Israel has been wanting to attack Iraq for over a year. The only reason why they haven't done it is because the US government has said, no, no, no, no, no let us handle this. But it doesn't look like the US government can handle it...For Iraq to make them give up the weapons would be an instant civil war. We don't want that. But we also don't want Israel to go in and kick their behinds...they're not playing...Send a positive thought and energy to Iraq. They need all they can get..
.The US is telling them we're not going to be able to protect you unless the Iraqi militants are disarmed...I believe things will work out but right at this moment I don't see how...
The presence of independent armed groups makes it harder to form stable governments, attract foreign investment and reassure citizens that the state, not militias is in charge...As long as weapons remains outside government control Iraq's sovereignty appears divided. Economic confidence remains fragile...Long term stability remains
uncertain. A country cannot fully move forward when there are two centers of power...Some militias are signaling flexibility. Others are digging in deeper. The Iraqi site is caught in between trying to assert authority without triggering further instability. How this unfolds will shape Iraq's...ability to function as a fully sovereign nation.TRUMP ENVOY AND JOE WILSON: WE WILL MAKE IRAQ GREAT AGAIN
TRUMP ENVOY AND JOE WILSON: WE WILL MAKE IRAQ GREAT AGAIN
Washington – Mark Savaya, President Donald Trump’s envoy, wrote on the “X” platform (formerly Twitter) on Thursday that he met with US Congressman Joe Wilson and it was a “great meeting.” “It was a great meeting with U.S. Congressman Joe Wilson and his team,” Savaya said in his post, adding, “We will make Iraq great again.”
For his part, Republican US Representative Joe Wilson wrote on the “X” platform that he was pleased to host Mark Savaya, the US Special Envoy to Iraq, in his office for a meeting he described as important regarding Iraq.
Wilson, who is known for raising controversial issues and making provocative statements, particularly regarding Iraq and the Middle East, added: “I look forward to working with the Special Envoy to bring prosperity to Iraq and liberate it from Iran,” noting that “there is no one more qualified than him to work on this issue for President Trump.”
US Representative Joe Wilson posted a picture of himself with Trump’s envoy, holding the Iraqi flag, with the American flag behind them and the new Syrian flag beside it.
Shafaq.com
Jeff Update: Does Iraq Need a Completed Government to Change the Dinar Rate?
One of the most common questions in the dinar community is whether Iraq must have a fully formed and completed government before the dinar rate can change. In his latest commentary, Jeff directly addresses this issue, offering insight into caretaker governments, Central Bank autonomy, and recent international recognition events.
As always, this perspective represents analysis and opinion, not financial advice.
⚠️ Disclaimer
All information shared is opinion-based and for educational purposes only. Political and monetary decisions can change at any time. Always consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.
The Big Question: Does Iraq Need a Fully Formed Government?
Caretaker Government Explained
Jeff explains that while Iraq’s government is still forming, it operates as a “caretaker government.”
This means:
Limited authority
Restricted access to government funds
Inability to pass major legislation or budgets
However, this limitation applies to the government, not the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI).
CBI Autonomy: Why It Matters
The Central Bank Is Independent
According to Jeff:
The CBI is autonomous
It is separate from the physical government
It does not require parliamentary approval to adjust the currency value
“The Central Bank can change the value of the currency whenever they want.”
This distinction is critical and often misunderstood.
🌍 Featured Snippet: Can the Dinar Rate Change Without a Government?
According to Jeff, there is no verifiable requirement that Iraq must have a fully formed government before the dinar rate can change. The CBI operates independently, and rate changes fall under monetary authority—not legislative authority.
Sovereignty, Stability & the UN Announcement
What Happened Last Weekend?
Jeff describes recent events as:
A graduation ceremony
Public recognition of Iraq’s:
Sovereignty
Stability
A milestone that needed to be announced to the world by the United Nations
“That had to be publicly announced to the world by the UN before the rate could change, IMO.”
Why International Recognition Is Key
Jeff believes:
Iraq needed global acknowledgment
Stability and sovereignty had to be internationally recognized
This step removes external objections to monetary changes
In his opinion, this milestone has now been achieved.
Jeff’s Opinion on Timing
Jeff concludes:
The required sovereignty and stability recognition already occurred
The condition he believes was necessary has been met
In his opinion, it happened last weekend
This interpretation suggests Iraq may now be monetarily unencumbered, regardless of government formation status.
Q&A – Community Clarifications
Q: Can a caretaker government change the dinar rate?
A: The caretaker government does not control the rate—the CBI does.
Q: Is the Central Bank truly independent?
A: Yes. The CBI is legally autonomous from Iraq’s legislative and executive branches.
Q: Does the UN need to approve a rate change?
A: Not directly, but international recognition of sovereignty and stability may remove political barriers.
Q: Did the rate already change?
A: Jeff believes the final prerequisite occurred, but no official rate announcement has been confirmed.
Final Thoughts
Jeff’s analysis highlights a crucial distinction:
Government formation affects legislation
Central bank autonomy governs currency value
If sovereignty and stability are now internationally recognized, Iraq may no longer be constrained by political timelines when it comes to monetary action.
As always, patience and discernment remain essential.
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Jeff
Question: "Do they have to have a fully formed completed government to change the rate?" That's questionable. While the government is in a forming state, they're considered a 'caretaker'. They have very limited access to Iraq funds and monies...
The Central Bank can change the value of the currency whenever they want. Why? Because the central bank is autonomous separate from the physical government...Do they have to have a formed completed government before the rate can change? We have no way of verifying that.
What happened last weekend was like a graduation ceremony of achieving sovereignty and stability that had to be publicly announced to the world by the UN before the rate could change, IMO, and it did. It happened last weekend.
Iraq REER & Currency Framework Update: REVAL HUB Insights Report
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