On September 7, 2026, the Egyptian Commercial Service (ECS) in Baghdad engaged in discussions with the Federation of Iraqi Businessmen to explore ways to strengthen trade relations, investment opportunities, and industrial collaboration between Egypt and Iraq. These discussions reflect a commitment to fostering economic partnership and mutual growth in the region.
Strengthening Economic Ties
The meeting, guided by the directives of Mohamed Farid Saleh, Egypt’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade, included key participants such as Samir Qorshi, the Commercial Counsellor and Head of ECS in Baghdad, and Ragheb Reda Blibel, the President of the Federation of Iraqi Businessmen. The involvement of both parties signifies a strong intent to bolster economic relationships and leverage their respective strengths for mutual benefit.
During the meeting, the representatives discussed various strategies aimed at increasing trade volume and diversifying the range of commodities exchanged between the two nations. They emphasized the need for fostering partnerships between Egyptian and Iraqi businesses, aiming to enhance industrial collaboration and facilitate technical knowledge transfer. Such efforts are poised to stimulate product development, raise added value, and boost competitiveness in both markets.
Facilitating Business Exchanges
One of the significant outcomes of the discussions was the agreement to intensify business exchanges, including organizing trade delegations and visits. Both sides indicated the importance of ensuring that more companies participate in commercial and industrial exhibitions held in either country. Additionally, they are committed to streamlining the movement of business communities by easing procedures related to entry permits and visas. This facilitation is vital for ensuring successful direct business meetings and fostering investment partnerships.
In a bid to further enhance collaboration, Qorshi extended an invitation to the Federation’s president and members to attend several upcoming exhibitions, including the Home Furnishings Exhibition in Cairo in October and the Destination Africa event in November. The ECS also pledged to provide the schedule of various trade and investment exhibitions happening in Egypt, allowing Iraqi businesses to explore opportunities in the Egyptian market.
Opportunities in the Iraqi Market
Abdel Aziz El-Sherif, the First Undersecretary at the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, highlighted that these initiatives are part of broader efforts to strengthen Egypt’s presence in key Arab markets. By directly connecting Egyptian companies with Iraqi business organizations, importers, and potential investors, the ECS aims to support the expansion and diversification of Egypt’s export portfolio.
El-Sherif noted that the Iraqi market presents significant opportunities for Egyptian companies across various sectors. Through its Baghdad office, the ECS is actively monitoring trade and investment opportunities and presenting these prospects to Egyptian enterprises. This proactive approach aims to enhance exports and support the growth of businesses looking to enter the Iraqi market.
Furthermore, El-Sherif emphasized the crucial role of collaboration with the Federation of Iraqi Businessmen, identifying it as a vital communication channel with Iraq’s business community. This strategic partnership is expected to yield substantial benefits, fostering economic synergy and promoting sustainable economic development between Egypt and Iraq.