Experts Warn: Bureaucracy and Corruption Hinder Foreign Investment Path in Iraq

Economic analyses confirmed that Iraq's investment environment continues to face structural challenges preventing a comprehensive developmental leap, despite promising opportunities in energy, housing, industry, and agriculture. Experts explained that Iraq's geographical location qualifies it to be an export hub in the Middle East; however, barriers such as complex bureaucracy, administrative corruption, and political disputes prompt foreign investors to hesitate. Furthermore, the delayed modernization of the banking sector was highlighted as an additional obstacle to capital mobility, which requires a stable and supportive environment. Experts emphasized the need to diversify investments, 90% of which are currently concentrated in the energy sector, while establishing transparent mechanisms to boost investor confidence.