We will conquer Iraq: 250 Uzbek entrepreneurs visit Baghdad

A delegation of Uzbek entrepreneurs is participating in the 49th session of the “Baghdad International Fair,” taking place from February 1 to 7 in Baghdad, the capital of Iraq.

The event is described as “one of the largest and most prestigious trade platforms” in Iraq, attracting companies from more than 20 countries each year.

For Uzbek participants, the fair serves as a crucial platform to expand international business connections, enter new markets, and enhance export potential.

For this reason, nearly 200 manufacturers, with the support of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, are showcasing over 400 types of products weighing more than 21 tons under the “Made in Uzbekistan” brand. These include goods from the food, pharmaceutical, construction, automotive, electrical engineering, furniture, light industry, and handicraft sectors, among others.

The Uzbek national exhibition occupies an area of 1,000 square meters. Participating Uzbek entrepreneurs collectively generate exports worth $1.417 billion and employ more than 57,000 people. These figures reflect both the participants’ foreign trade capacity and their interest in expanding cooperation with the Iraqi market.

Uzbek entrepreneurs have the potential to earn millions of dollars from Iraq. To facilitate this, visa procedures are being simplified, and direct flights between the two countries will be established. Iraqi Minister of Trade Atir Dawood Al-Ghurairi personally informed QALAMPIR.UZ about this initiative.

“The visa process has been simplified—applications can now be processed in just six hours. The Iraqi Ministry of Trade, along with other ministries, is prepared to welcome every entrepreneur, investor, or tourist from Uzbekistan with open arms and provide necessary support. Entry into the Iraqi market will not face major obstacles in terms of visas, customs, or logistics. These processes are constantly monitored by the Trade Committee to streamline procedures and eliminate potential barriers. The establishment of this committee was initiated by the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan. Uzbek products will face no restrictions or discrimination; competition will be based solely on quality and price. During our meeting with the Uzbek Prime Minister, we also discussed establishing direct flights, which will initially serve trade routes. I am confident that in the future, Uzbekistan will become one of the most attractive destinations for Iraqi tourists,” said Iraqi Minister of Trade Atir Dawood Al-Ghurairi.

Furthermore, Uzbek businesspeople who plan to establish factories or production facilities in Iraq will be offered significant incentives and opportunities.

“After observing the activities of Uzbek entrepreneurs and personally familiarizing myself with Uzbek products, I can confidently say that Uzbek goods are highly competitive in terms of quality and price in the Iraqi market. The Iraqi market is very large and continues to have a strong demand for imports. Currently, Iraq’s annual imports exceed $85 billion, and some of these imported goods cannot compete with Uzbek products. The main issue previously was the absence of direct trade and logistics channels between Iraq and Uzbekistan. However, through our current meetings, this issue is expected to be resolved, opening a new chapter in trade relations,” added Al-Ghurairi.

During the fair, Uzbek entrepreneurs are expected to hold B2B meetings with Iraqi businesspeople, distributors, and trade organizations, sign new contracts, and establish long-term partnerships.

Participation in this exhibition helps strengthen the presence of Uzbek products in the Middle Eastern market, expand export geography, and enhance the reputation of the national brand.

The delegation included Uzbekistan’s Minister of Agriculture I. Abdurakhmanov, Chairman of the State Customs Committee A. Mavlonov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry D. Vakhobov, and Director of the Agency for Plant Quarantine and Protection I. Ergashev.

A report on the event can be viewed on our YouTube channel.