Shafaq News..Iraq allocates 100 hectares per province for industrial projects

Shafaq News- Baghdad

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi on Sunday directed
authorities to prepare and allocate 100 hectares of land in each province for
industrial projects selected by the General Directorate for Industrial
Development, while ordering a ban on exports of several metal raw materials.

Al-Zaidi issued the directives while chairing the third
session of the Industrial Coordination Council. The measures come as Iraq seeks
to expand domestic manufacturing and reduce its reliance on imports as part of
efforts to diversify its oil-dependent economy. The government’s industrial
program identifies food processing, pharmaceuticals and construction materials
as priority sectors and calls for the revival of stalled factories and the
development of industrial cities.

Iraq’s industrial sector continues to face structural
challenges, including outdated facilities, limited supply chains and dependence
on imported raw materials. Around 1,000 factories rely on imported inputs,
raising production costs and making them less competitive with imported goods.

Earlier, industry officials told Shafaq News that around
37,000 factories were operating, while nearly 35,000 remained inactive.
Industrial exports include products such as construction materials, iron
products and metal containers, while officials have called for stronger
measures to support local manufacturers.