Iraq's Agriculture Ministry bans import of 33 agricultural products

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Agriculture has banned the import of 33 agricultural products that can be sourced domestically, ministry spokesperson Hamza al-Khafaf said, as the country moves to protect local farmers and stabilize the market. The decision is based on an agricultural calendar issued under Cabinet Decision No. 23110 of 2023, which prohibits import permits for the listed products at border crossings. The restrictions apply to goods that are available locally, with the aim of enabling farmers to earn income and shielding them from financial losses, according to the spokesperson. The ministry has carved out an exception for 14 products restricted on security, health or dual-use grounds, including live animals, veterinary medicines, seeds and seedlings, and pesticides. Imports of those items remain subject to approval by the relevant sectoral authorities. The Import Division within the ministry's Planning and Follow-up Department continues to process permits through its standard procedures, with approvals issued via three electronic platforms once the relevant sectoral authority has signed off, al-Khafaf said.