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AHK Iraq: German-Iraqi Business Gateway: Your Partner in Success

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AHK World Business Outlook – Fall 2025 | Iraq

Explore AHK Iraq’s Fall 2025 survey results: 85% of German companies in Iraq report strong business performance, with...

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DEinternational Services

Free Initial Consultation

Free Initial Consultation

As the official representation of German business in Iraq, the German Liaison Office for Commerce and Industry in Iraq supports German and international companies with professional services for entering and expanding in the Iraqi market. A central part of our offering is our free initial consultation for interested companies. It serves as a first orientation for your market entry in Iraq.
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Contact Finder

A targeted research service to identify and deliver verified business contacts within your specific industry or sector in Iraq. Combining online research, local networks, and our CRM, we provide you with relevant decision-makers and key players to support your business development and partnership efforts.
Industry Insight Report

Industry Insight Report

A tailored market analysis providing key data, trends, and strategic recommendations for your target industry in Iraq. Designed to help companies understand market dynamics, competitive landscape, regulatory environment, and business opportunities - enabling informed decisions for successful market entry or expansion.
Accounting & Payroll Services in Iraq for German Businesses – AHK Iraq

Accounting & Payroll Services

We provide effective accounting and tax solutions that enable you to concentrate on the smooth day-to-day operations of your business in Iraq.

Partnership Request

Share your company contact details with us, and we’ll be glad to send over the partnership packages via email from AHK Iraq. We look forward to connecting with you

Send an inquiry

Upcoming Events & Business Delegations

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Business Delegation to Munich Intersolar 2026 | June 22–25, 2026

Join AHK Iraq's official business delegation to Intersolar 2026 in Munich, the leading global trade fair for solar energy. Explore technologies, meet partners, and expand your market reach.
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Business Delegation to Munich – ceramitec 2026

AHK Iraq Erbil office is organizing a business delegation to Munich from 23 to 27 March 2026, which will include an official visit to ceramitec 2026, one of the world's leading trade fairs for the ceramics and raw materials industry.
Business professionals having breakfast and discussing cooperation, representing AHK Iraq’s networking event with German companies and partners Event

Business Breakfast Baghdad: Industrial Safety & Security | February 2, 2026

Join AHK Iraq’s Business Breakfast on industrial safety and security in Baghdad. Explore regulatory updates, best practices, and German innovations in workplace safety.
Business professionals having breakfast and discussing cooperation, representing AHK Iraq’s networking event with German companies and partners Event

Business Breakfast Erbil – Construction Materials “Made in Germany” | February 11,2026

Explore top-tier German construction materials at AHK Iraq’s Erbil Business Breakfast. Discover how quality and standards can enhance Iraq’s construction sector.
Traditional iftar dinner table with Middle Eastern dishes representing AHK Iraq’s Ramadan networking event bringing together German and Iraqi business partners Event

AHK Iftar Erbil – Ramadan Networking Event | March 12, 2026

Celebrate Ramadan with the AHK Iraq community in Erbil. The 2026 Iftar brings together German companies, Iraqi partners, and dignitaries for networking.

Apply to Join in one of our Business Delegations

Join our upcoming business delegations opportunities designed to connect German and Iraqi companies, open doors for partnerships, and strengthen market knowledge.

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Iraq Business Newsletter - Insights & Updates from AHK Iraq, Sign Up Here!

Stay Informed: 

  • Key Developments in Iraq’s Business Landscape.
  • German-Iraqi Trade Updates & Market Trends.
  • Expert Insights & Business Opportunities in Iraq.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the main challenges and risks of doing business in Iraq?

Iraq offers opportunities but also faces challenges, including security risks in certain areas, bureaucratic hurdles, payment delays, and regulatory uncertainties. However, the business climate is improving with investment-friendly reforms and reconstruction projects. 

What are the business opportunities for German companies in Iraq?

Iraq offers business opportunities across all sectors, especially in the following areas: 

  • Energy & Oil/Gas: Iraq is one of the largest oil producers and has a demand for advanced technology and engineering services. 
  • Infrastructure & Construction: Significant investments are planned in roads, bridges, and housing. 
  • Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: There is a demand for modern medical equipment and expertise. 
  • Water & Waste Management: Iraq needs solutions for water purification and waste treatment. 
  • Industrial Machinery & Manufacturing: There is interest in German expertise in industrial automation and production. 

What is the process for registering a company in Iraq?

  1. Choose a business structure (e.g., LLC, branch office, joint venture). 
  2. Register with the Iraqi Companies Registrar at the Ministry of Trade in Baghdad or Erbil (Business Registration System). 
  3. Obtain a tax ID and register for social security. 
  4. Apply for necessary sector-specific licenses. 

Many companies work with local legal advisors to navigate the process efficiently. 

What are the tax and customs regulations for foreign businesses?

  • Corporate Tax: Generally 15%, but oil and gas companies face up to 35% tax. 
  • Customs Duties: Usually 5% on most imports, but exemptions exist for some projects. 
  • VAT: Iraq currently does not have VAT, but consumption taxes apply to certain goods. 
  • Tax Incentives: The Iraqi Investment Law provides tax breaks for approved investment projects. 

How can I find reliable local business partners or distributors?

German companies often find partners through: 

  • AHK Iraq (German Liaison Office for Commerce and Industry in Iraq) 
  • Industry events and trade fairs in Iraq 
  • Existing German-Iraqi business networks 

What are the banking and financial transaction challenges in Iraq?

The banking system is still developing and offers limited international banking connections. Payment delays are a common issue. Transactions in USD are common, but currency fluctuations can affect deals.

Many German companies use international banks in Jordan, UAE, or Turkey for secure transactions.

How do labor laws and hiring processes work in Iraq?

Companies must hire a certain percentage of Iraqi workers, often at least 50%. Expats need a business visa and work permit, which can be bureaucratic to obtain. The Iraqi Labor Law No. 37 (2015) covers wages, working hours, and termination conditions. For the Kurdistan Region, slightly different labor regulations may apply. 

What are the logistics and infrastructure challenges for supply chains?

The main entry points are Umm Qasr Port, Basra, and land borders with Turkey, Iran, and Jordan. Bureaucracy and occasional corruption can slow down imports. The railway network is limited, so most transport is via road freight. Some regions have checkpoints and security restrictions affecting movement. Free Zones offer logistics hubs with tax benefits. German companies often work with local logistics experts to ensure smooth operations.

Where can I find public tenders and government contracts?

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