Iraq's Agriculture Ministry bans imports of 33 locally produced crops

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Agriculture has banned the import of 33 agricultural products that are sufficiently produced domestically, ministry spokesperson Hammam al-Hattab told the Iraqi News Agency. Al-Hattab said protecting local crops is achieved by preventing competing imports and supporting farmers. He added that halting imports of items competing with domestic production has brought balance to the market, particularly in pricing. According to the ministry, the ban applies to 33 products that can be sourced domestically based on the agricultural calendar. The decision follows a 2023 Council of Ministers decision, No. 23110, which lifted import permits for all products except 14 restricted for security, health and dual-use reasons. The restricted list includes live animals, veterinary medicines, seeds and seedlings, and agricultural pesticides. The ministry said import permits, where still applicable, are processed through three electronic platforms following approval from the relevant authorities.