Iraq · Country watch
Iraq PM Courts US Firms, Small Business Loans Boosted
Iraq's PM invites US investment in key sectors and enhances small business loan access, impacting economic growth.
The picture Improving
Iraq is improving its business climate by inviting US investments in key sectors and enhancing small business loan access, fostering economic growth.
In this briefing Iraq's Small Business Support Fund · Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs · Ali al-Zaidi · HKN Energy · ExxonMobil · Iraq
Regulation
Iraq's Small Business Support Fund reviews loan procedures
Iraq's Small Business Support Fund convened a board meeting to review and enhance procedures for issuing loans to small business owners, according to Iraq Business News. The meeting, held at the Department of Labour and Vocational Training, aimed to improve support mechanisms under the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. This initiative is part of Iraq's efforts to bolster the small business sector and stimulate economic growth.
Impact Small business owners in Iraq are set to benefit from improved access to loans, enhancing growth prospects.
Sources: Iraq Business News ↗
Disruption
Nothing significant reported today.
Internal tension
Nothing significant reported today.
Safety & health
Nothing significant reported today.
Companies
Iraqi PM meets US oil firms in New York

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi held meetings in New York with representatives from US oil companies HKN Energy and ExxonMobil, as reported by Iraq Business News. Al-Zaidi urged HKN Energy to accelerate its operations and increase working hours on its projects in Iraq. These discussions highlight Iraq's intent to strengthen its oil sector and secure commitments from major international players.
Impact HKN Energy and ExxonMobil are prompted to enhance their operational commitments in Iraq, potentially increasing oil output.
Sources: Iraq Business News ↗
Markets
Nothing significant reported today.
Trade
Nothing significant reported today.
Politics
Iraqi PM urges US firms to invest in key sectors
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has called on US companies to explore investment opportunities in Iraq, focusing on the petrochemicals, glass, and phosphate industries, according to Iraqi News. During a meeting in New York, al-Zaidi emphasized the potential for US firms to play a significant role in Iraq's economic development. This invitation aligns with Iraq's broader strategy to attract foreign investment and diversify its economy.
Impact US firms in petrochemicals, glass, and phosphate sectors are encouraged to invest in Iraq, potentially boosting economic ties.
Sources: Iraqi News ↗
Also today in Iraq
- Harem Kamal Agha: Recommendations Submitted to Address Kurdistan Region Fuel Shortage — PUKmedia Kurdish
- Iraqi PM, US president discuss partnerships, regional stability — Iraqi News
- Eurobites: MEO taps Eutelsat for satellite assist in Portugal — Iraqi Media Network
- China Telecom is all-in on AI tokens despite cost warnings — Iraqi Media Network
- China’s Human Rights Crisis Hasn’t Disappeared — Lvin Press Kurdish
- The Law of the Sea Is in Trouble — Lvin Press Kurdish
- Iraqi PM meets Iranian president in New York — Iraqi News
- Illegal Currency Network Dismantled as Dinar Weakens — Iraq Business News
Sources in this briefing
Sources: each headline links to the original article on the publisher's site.
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