Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq/Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, Mr. Ghulam Isaczai Opening Remarks - Iraq National Trade Forum

Assalamu-alykum.

I would like to welcome you with us in the opening of the Second Iraq National Trade Forum. I am also honored to be present here today in this important event with Their Excellencies Minister of Trade and Minister of Agriculture, as well as United Nations colleagues, including representatives of the International Trade Center (ITC), and representatives of the international community, including the European Union.

This year's event commemorates the resilience, innovation, and the tireless spirit of Iraqi SMEs.

In Iraq, there are more than a million SMEs, covering a wide spectrum of economic sectors providing two thirds of the jobs in the private sector.

This is a tremendous added value for national economy, which we need to actively capitalize on. 

Last year, B2B sessions generated deals worth millions of dollars, showcasing the immense potential Iraqi local businesses possess.

Despite the formidable resilience of Iraq's economic sectors, especially agriculture, tough challenges remains.

These challenges include regulations and the need for more support and resources to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) thrive.

SMEs struggle with high costs, limited access to finance, and technology.

Stories of farmers unable to afford quality seeds and young entrepreneurs lacking digital skills emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive support and new solutions.

Addressing these issues is not just about economic growth; it's about achieving our collective goal of Sustainable Development Goals.

Ladies and Gentlemen:

SMEs in Iraq are more than just businesses; they are the foundation to transform society, drive growth, reduce poverty, and empower women and youth.

They play a crucial role in accelerating achievement of the SDGs, diversifying agriculture and fostering green business practices.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Trade, and supported by ITC and the entire UN family in Iraq, we stand committed to fostering an environment conducive to SME growth.

Towards this aim, multiple UN agencies, with ITC leading the efforts, alongside ILO, IOM, and UNIDO, are actively engaged in supporting SMEs in Iraq making progress in advancing investment policies, intellectual property regulations, procurement practices, and enhancing competitiveness.

Dear Participants:

Let’s envision a society where every entrepreneur is not only valued but also supported and empowered to realize their full potential.

And our commitment must go beyond overcoming current challenges and foster a collective vision to innovate, collaborate, and uplift one another, weaving a tapestry of success stories across Iraq.

The journey ahead may be long, but with your dedication, resilience, and partnership, I am confident together, we are on the path to a brighter, more prosperous, and sustainable future for Iraq.

Thank you for being here, and for embracing this vision.

Together, let's turn this vision into reality.