Kurdistan Economy

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Kurdistan prepares to welcome
tourists for Eid al-Adha

Kurdistan’s four provinces are preparing to receive a large number of tourists, mostly from central and southern Iraq, for the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, with the majority of hotels fully booked ahead of the holidays

A large number of tourists from central and southern Iraq have arrived in Kurdistan, according to tourism authorities. In Erbil province, 90 percent of its 445 hotels have been booked by tourists, Shukir Aziz, deputy head of the Kurdistan Restaurant and Guesthouse Association’s Erbil branch, told Rudaw on Thursday.

“For all the holiday days, all hotels, motels, and tourist sites will be open to welcome tourists,” Aziz said.

Mahmood Tofiq, head of the association’s Sulaimani branch, told Rudaw that much like in Erbil, “all preparations have been made” to welcome tourists.

“Many tourists have come, and a large portion of tourists have booked hotels and will arrive from today onward,” he said.

The association’s head for Duhok province also said that restaurants and other tourist sites will be open during the holidays.

“Hotels are full of tourists, most of which were pre-booked by companies,” said Sheikh Ihsan Issa.

Halabja, recently recognized as a province by the federal Iraqi government, is also preparing to welcome tourists, especially to the summer resorts of Hawraman near the border with Iran.

“In Halabja city center and Tawela district, hotels have been opened and are ready to welcome tourists. There are also cabins, motels, and tourist lodges that welcome tourists,” said Hawraman Jalal, director of information and relations for Halabja tourism.

Amal Jalal, the head of Kurdistan’s tourism board, told Rudaw that preparations are in place to ensure the provision of services and security in cooperation with the provinces’ tourism departments.

“The preparations are based on providing services, ensuring the tourists’ security and safety, and rules and regulations for protecting the tourists,” Jalal said.

Kurdistan is considered Iraq’s main tourist hub. With its moderate summer weather and cold winters, the Region welcomes Iraqi tourists throughout the year

The bulk of holidaymakers visiting the Kurdistan Region come from Iraq’s central and southern provinces, while the remaining tourists come from abroad.

The Kurdistan Government (KRG) plans to attract 20 million tourists per year by 2030.

“We are in the process of preparing a tourism package for people from outside the Kurdistan Region so that they can get to know the Kurdistan Region better,” Jalal added.

Eid al-Adha is one of the two main Muslim holidays, which will begin on Friday and continue for four days.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/050620251

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BCF Submits UN Report on
Iraq’s Salary Cuts to Kurdistan

The Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF) is submitting a special report to the United Nations Human Rights Council, highlighting the humanitarian consequences of the federal government’s repeated salary cuts and delays affecting public employees in the Kurdistan Region

In its report, the foundation — a member of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 2016 — expresses grave concern over the continued use of salaries as a political tool, warning that such practices are pushing the humanitarian situation in the Kurdistan Region to critical levels.

“The decision to cut and suspend the salaries of civil service employees, pensioners, and public sector workers is not only politically motivated, but it also deeply affects women, children, and the elderly — the most vulnerable groups in society,” the foundation stated

The BCF pointed out that since late 2013, Baghdad has regularly delayed or withheld budget transfers and salary payments to the Kurdistan Region, even as other federal territories receive funds without disruption.

The report describes this as a form of “psychological warfare against civilians,” noting that financial insecurity has left many families unable to meet basic daily needs and has caused a rise in poverty, anxiety, and despair — particularly among elderly citizens and households led by women.

“This situation is leading families into deep poverty and subjecting children to a future of uncertainty and darkness,” the foundation warned.

The salary dispute stems from long-standing disagreements over oil exports, revenue sharing, and the Kurdistan Region’s share of the federal budget. Under Iraq’s budget law, the KRG is entitled to a percentage of the national budget, but transfers from Baghdad have frequently been delayed or reduced amid disputes over the KRG’s oil sales.

Although temporary agreements have occasionally been reached, the issue has remained unresolved, leading to repeated disruptions in salary disbursements for civil servants in the region.

In recent months, tensions escalated again after Baghdad transferred only partial payments for salaries, citing non-compliance by the KRG with budget conditions. The Kurdistan Regional Government has denied the accusations and criticized the federal government for politicizing the issue and causing widespread hardship.

The BCF, in its report, urges the United Nations and international organizations to pressure the Iraqi federal government to stop using salary payments as leverage in political disputes and to uphold the principle of equal treatment for all Iraqi citizens

The foundation emphasized that while political and constitutional disagreements between Erbil and Baghdad persist, the humanitarian cost should not be borne by the people. “Ordinary citizens must not be used as bargaining chips,” the report concluded.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/885761

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Kurdistan Factories Export 25 Products
Despite Iraqi Trade Barriers

More than 3,500 factories have been officially registered in the Kurdistan Region, exporting over 25 different types of products to markets across Iraq and abroad, according to the latest statistics from the Kurdistan Government’s (KRG) Ministry of Trade and Industry

Despite the growing demand for Kurdish-made products, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Palestine, several factory owners say they are facing obstacles from the Iraqi federal government when attempting to export goods overland through Iraqi territory.

Azad Jalal, owner of a factory in Erbil that produces tile grout and polystyrene, said his products have passed international quality control inspections and are in high demand.

“Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Palestine have requested our products, but the Iraqi government creates obstacles for us and does not grant us permits to get our products to those countries,” Jalal told Kurdistan 24.

While more than 50 factories in the Kurdistan Region are already exporting products to international markets, others are limited to supplying Iraq’s central and southern provinces due to Baghdad’s restrictions on exports from Kurdistan

The KRG is stepping up efforts to support industrial development and increase exports. According to Tayb Kazho, Director of Erbil Industrial Development, authorities are working to resolve the challenges faced by local factories.

“According to existing law, we are coordinating with the relevant bodies in the industrial sector to address these issues and enable more exports,” Kazho said.

Officials say the KRG is continuing to facilitate the establishment of new factories aimed at both meeting local demand and expanding export capacity, despite the roadblocks imposed by federal authorities.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/885844

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KRG Investment Opportunities

Kurdistan’s (KRG) Board of Investment has organized the Kurdistan–Netherlands Economic Forum in The Hague, taking place from June 9 to 13, to present key investment opportunities in the Kurdistan Region to international businesses

In a post on LinkedIn, the Board of Investment stated: “The Kurdistan–Netherlands Economic Forum established new frameworks for economic cooperation, with a strategic focus on agribusiness development, water infrastructure modernization, and clean energy solutions.”

The delegation, consisting of the Chairman of the Board of Investment, Mohammed Shukri, and the Minister of Agriculture, Begard Talabani, is set to highlight major investment opportunities in the Kurdistan Region, with a strong emphasis on industry and agriculture. The visit reflects the KRG’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment amid shifting regional dynamics.

Speaking to Kurdistan 24, Shukri confirmed that the KRG is accompanied by 20 companies from across the Region. “We want to introduce the Kurdistan Region to international companies and attract investors, especially in the fields of industry, food, and agriculture,” he stated.

Kurdistan’s economy has long depended on oil exports, but regional officials have repeatedly emphasized the need for economic reform and diversification, particularly following disruptions caused by falling oil prices and delays in budget transfers from Baghdad. The delegation’s presence in the Netherlands aims to promote sectors with untapped potential, such as agribusiness, light manufacturing, and renewable energy.

Shukri stressed the importance of reducing reliance on oil revenues and creating sustainable economic alternatives. The two-day forum will also highlight potential growth areas in tourism, higher education, healthcare, technology, and water management—sectors where Dutch expertise is especially relevant.

The Netherlands is one of Europe’s leaders in agricultural innovation, water technology, and food processing, making it an attractive partner for the KRG’s development goals. The KRG plans to collaborate with Dutch experts to introduce new agricultural products in the Region. The goal is to enhance domestic production and develop the food industry to meet local needs while expanding exports of Kurdish food abroad.

In recent years, the Kurdistan Region has positioned itself as a gateway to Iraq and a stable environment for foreign investors. Initiatives such as streamlined investment procedures and incentives for international companies are part of broader reforms aimed at fostering long-term economic partnerships.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/885909

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Erbil Welcomes 89,000 Tourists

Erbil province announced the successful implementation of its security and service plans during Eid al-Adha, confirming stable conditions with no major disruptions

According to a statement from Governor’s office on Monday, the province successfully managed a significant influx of visitors during Eid al-Adha, stating that 89,301 tourists visited Erbil province over the holiday period and tourism activities proceeded smoothly under a pre-set plan.

The plan, orchestrated by the province's Security Committee, aimed to maintain peace and security while facilitating a positive experience for both residents and visitors during the festive celebration.

The Erbil Security Directorate reported the full implementation of its security plan without any violations. Security forces remained on high alert throughout the holiday, the statement said.

Erbil Police recorded 42 crimes, solving 41. One case remains under investigation.

Traffic authorities reported 17 accidents, mostly caused by speeding and ignoring traffic rules. These incidents resulted in nine injuries and one fatality.

Civil Defense units across Erbil remained on active duty throughout the Eid. They responded effectively to 16 fire incidents, successfully controlling all situations and preventing any loss of life or injuries; damages were reported as solely material.

Healthcare services operated at full capacity. Hospitals and medical teams within the Erbil Governorate attended to 6,575 citizens and a total of 71 new babies were born over the four days of Eid.

Public parks welcomed about 108,000 visitors, with Sami Abdul Rahman Park alone receiving 30,000 people, the statement added.

The Erbil Governor’s office highlighted the successful coordination and execution of its multifaceted plan, ensuring a generally safe and secure Eid al-Adha celebration while effectively managing the large influx of tourists and addressing health service demands and isolated incidents.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/885902

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PM Barzani to CNN:
We Plan to Diversify our Economy

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In an exclusive interview with CNN released on Tuesday, Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani stated that the Kurdistan Region plans to diversify its economy

“Actually, it’s our plan to diversify our economy — to make sure that we have different sources of revenue and do not rely solely on oil. We’ve looked at how we can invest in agriculture, industrialize Kurdistan, and promote tourism,” Prime Minister Barzani told CNN.

Regarding the Kurdistan Region’s entity within Iraq, the Prime Minister stated that it has better conditions than Iraq. “We definitely have better conditions. We have better security, we have better infrastructure — and maybe we started a little earlier than the rest of Iraq. We’re heavily focused on making sure that we tackle corruption.”

He also added that “We make sure that things are done in the right way, and that’s why I believe Kurdistan is in a better place. But that doesn’t mean Kurdistan cannot be a gateway for the rest of Iraq. So, whoever wants to come and invest in Kurdistan will have an opportunity to look at the rest of Iraq.”

Concerning the number of foreign investments in the Kurdistan Region, Barzani revealed that there are not too many foreign investors in the region. “Unfortunately, we don’t have many foreign investments coming in, and that’s the reason why we’re changing the investment law to be more attractive to foreign investors.”

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/84 ... ur-economy

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Kurdistan Launches ‘Visit Kurdistan’ Initiative
to Attract 20 Million Tourists by 2035

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Tuesday will officially launch the “Visit Kurdistan” initiative, a tourism-focused foundation aimed at transforming the autonomous region into a global travel destination, with a target of hosting over 20 million tourists by 2035

The “Visit Kurdistan” foundation is a non-governmental organization established more than a year ago, working under the umbrella of the tourism sector. According to the campaign’s spokesperson, Halmet Kestaei, the foundation's core mission is to showcase Kurdistan’s natural beauty and promote international tourism across its diverse landscapes.

“Our goal is to advance the tourism sector and attract international tourists to the Kurdistan Region,” Kestaei told Kurdistan24. “We aim to bring more than 20 million tourists to the Region by 2035. The initiative will also create over 500 job opportunities.”

Kestaei highlighted the organization’s broader vision, which includes developing essential tourism infrastructure, providing digital services for booking hotels, accommodations, and travel tickets through an integrated online platform designed for international visitors.

One of the flagship projects under the “Visit Kurdistan” initiative is a 10-kilometer-long cable car project in the town of Soran, expected to be completed by 2027. The project will feature 10 stations and include hotels, cafés, and other recreational facilities.

The Kurdistan Region of Iraq has long been viewed as a relatively safe and picturesque destination in the Middle East, boasting mountainous landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage

The launch of the “Visit Kurdistan” initiative comes at a time when the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) seeks to diversify its economy and reduce dependency on oil revenues by investing in alternative sectors like tourism, agriculture, and the manufacturing industry. The involvement of Prime Minister Barzani underscores the government’s commitment to developing tourism as a strategic economic pillar.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/84 ... ts-by-2035

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Mass Resignation in Iraq’s
Federal Supreme Court

Six main judges and three reserve members of Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court resigned on Thursday in a sudden and unprecedented move, effectively suspending the court’s operations just hours before it was expected to rule on a critical case regarding the salaries and financial entitlements of public servants in the Kurdistan Region

The resignations came as the court was set to convene and possibly issue a preliminary ruling on the salary dispute between Erbil and Baghdad. The development has raised serious questions about the judiciary’s independence and the future of key legal processes in Iraq.

On Wednesday, a court source told Kurdistan 24 that the president of the Federal Court had called on member judges to attend Thursday’s session, specifically to address the Kurdistan salary issue. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) had recently submitted an official request urging the court to intervene.

During a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani stressed the importance of the court’s role, saying he had sent a letter regarding the salary crisis and hoped the court would rule in favor of the Kurdistani people.

However, the unexpected resignations have left the court without the necessary quorum to proceed. According to Iraqi law, at least seven judges are required to convene and issue rulings. Only three judges now remain, rendering the body unable to act on any legal matter.

Sherwan Dubardani, a member of Iraq’s Council of Representatives from the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), confirmed the resignations to BasNews and described the court as effectively “collapsed.” He added that the resignations stemmed from internal disputes over the controversial Khor Abdullah maritime agreement between Iraq and Kuwait.

“The reason behind the judges’ resignation is the Khor Abdullah issue,” Dubardani noted. “Now, with only three judges left, the court cannot even issue a preliminary order. The salary issue will remain unresolved.”

The Khor Abdullah agreement—seen by some militias and political factions as a concession of Iraqi territory to Kuwait—has sparked outrage and accusations of betrayal within Iraq. The backlash has reportedly caused divisions within the judiciary, ultimately triggering the mass resignation.

The paralysis of Iraq’s highest court comes at a time of growing tension between the KRG and Baghdad, particularly over budget allocations and oil revenue disputes. The latest development is expected to deepen the crisis and delay any legal resolution to the financial grievances affecting hundreds of thousands of public sector employees in the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/886905

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Kurdistan Will Not Be a Source
of Threat to Any Party

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Council of Ministers convened on Wednesday, under the supervision of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and with the attendance of Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, to address key financial, administrative, and regional matters

Opening the meeting, Prime Minister Barzani addressed the ongoing financial dispute with Baghdad, particularly the issue of salary cuts and the withholding of the Kurdistan Region’s financial entitlements by the Federal Ministry of Finance.

The Prime Minister underscored that the KRG is making every possible effort to resolve the matter. He revealed that in recent days, the government submitted a formal letter to the Federal Court, contesting the legality and constitutionality of the Federal Ministry of Finance’s decision.

“We hope the Federal Court will respond to the letter with a fair decision that will benefit the people of Kurdistan,” Prime Minister Barzani stated. “The Kurdistan Regional Government has fulfilled all its constitutional obligations and expects the same respect for constitutional rights and the disbursement of financial entitlements.”

The Council then discussed the latest developments stemming from regional conflicts and tensions and their potential implications for the Kurdistan Region.

The Council of Ministers reaffirmed the unchanging position of the Kurdistan Region, which has always opposed war, conflict, and destruction, and as always, remains an important factor for peace, stability, and security — nor will it pose a threat to any neighboring country or any party.

The Council further stressed its support for all initiatives aimed at resolving issues through dialogue and peaceful negotiation, in order to preserve peace and coexistence across Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and the broader region.

20% reduction in traffic violation fines extended for six more months

Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed presented a proposal to extend the current 20% reduction on traffic violation fines. The extension will apply from July 1 through December 31, 2025.

The proposal was unanimously approved by the Council of Ministers.

Public Medical College graduates to be appointed based on Ministry of Health standards

In the final session of the meeting, Minister of Health Saman Barzinji and Cabinet Secretary Amanj Rahim jointly proposed a plan to appoint graduates from the Public Medical College.

Following deliberations, the Council approved the proposal. Appointments will be conducted in accordance with the criteria established by the Ministry of Health. The ministries of Finance, Economy, and Health, along with the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, have been tasked with implementing the necessary administrative procedures.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/84 ... -any-party

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Duhok First-Ever Summer Festival
to Boost Economy and Tourism

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The city of Duhok has launched its first-ever summer festival with the participation of over 100 local and international companies, in a move aimed at stimulating economic activity and revitalizing the tourism sector in the Kurdistan Region, according to organizers

The festival features an open-air market offering a wide range of everyday consumer products, including food, household goods, cosmetics, and personal care items — many sold at prices below those found in local markets. Global brands are also prominently represented, giving shoppers a diverse and high-quality selection.

Hendrin Rashid, a representative of one of the participating companies, told Kurdistan24, “Our products include pasta and cloves, and we’re proud of their high Italian-quality standards. I think this festival is very important. Many companies are here, and it’s a great opportunity for people to explore new products up close.”

Zina Karwan, another company representative, stressed the importance of continuing such events. “We hope these types of festivals become regular. They allow companies to showcase products at affordable prices and offer visitors a chance to benefit directly,” she said.

Beyond commerce, the festival includes daily artistic and entertainment events designed to attract visitors and add vibrancy to the city’s summer atmosphere.

Saman Moshir, a company representative, highlighted the festival’s role in public engagement. “These festivals spotlight what’s new in the market. For example, car companies are presenting their latest models — and many people only discover such offerings through events like this.”

The eight-day festival, which began on Wednesday, is organized by Bazar Advertising Company and officially sponsored by the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Trade and Industry. It welcomes visitors daily from 6:00 p.m. to midnight.

Festival organizer Samir Nazari shared with Kurdistan24 that “40% of the participating brands are international, while 60% are local. We are proud of the noticeable progress in the Kurdistani brand identity. We also offer direct discounts to benefit both citizens and tourists.”

With over 370 local and international brands featured in the festival market, the event offers a seasonal shopping and entertainment experience that blends quality, variety, and affordability.

Amid lively summer scenes and engaging activities, Duhok’s summer festival has quickly become a daily destination for locals and tourists alike, showcasing the city’s vibrant commercial and cultural pulse.
Duhok's first-ever summer festival, with the participation of over 100 local and international companies. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/84 ... nd-tourism

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Baghdad Delegation to Visit Erbil
Talks on Oil and Salaries

A high-level delegation from the Iraqi federal government is set to arrive in Erbil on Thursday night to hold critical talks with the Kurdistan Government (KRG) on public sector salaries, oil exports, and budget allocations

The visit was confirmed by Ali Hussein, head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP)’s Organizational Bureau in Sulaimani and Halabja, who stated that the delegation’s main objective is to engage in direct discussions with KRG officials to resolve long-standing disputes over financial entitlements and oil revenues.

Speaking to Kurdistan24, Hussein said the delegation includes representatives from the Iraqi Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Oil, and the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO).

The visit follows remarks by KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Wednesday, June 25. During a press conference, Prime Minister emphasized the KRG’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of the people of the Kurdistan Region.

“We will not give up any of our constitutional rights,” Prime Minister Barzani said. “Not a day has passed without us working to solve this crisis.”

PM Barzani added that he had spoken directly with the head of Iraq’s Judicial Council and the federal prime minister about the urgency of resolving the financial deadlock. “They were very positive and expressed readiness to send a delegation in the near future,” he said.

The visit is expected to be a pivotal step in ongoing efforts to settle disputes that have strained relations between Erbil and Baghdad for years—particularly over oil revenue sharing and delayed salary payments to public sector employees in the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/887612

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Iraq’s Budget Approach Aims to
Economically Undermine Kurdistan

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The Kurdistan Region’s Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs on Thursday accused the Iraqi government of deliberately creating economic hardships for the Kurdish people by withholding salaries and budget allocations since 2014

Speaking at a press conference, Minister Pishtiwan Sadiq stated that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) holds constitutional rights that guarantee the full entitlements of the Kurdish population. However, he emphasized that Baghdad continues to violate these rights, intentionally causing difficulties for the people of the Kurdistan Region.

“We have a constitution that clearly outlines the rights of the Kurdish people,” said Sadiq. “Yet, Iraqi authorities persistently stand against the Kurds, creating crises through mechanisms like salary cuts and budget withholding.”

The minister argued that the financial crisis is part of a broader set of disputes with Baghdad, including territorial disagreements. “If a people lose their land, they lose everything. The issue of land is vital for us,” he stressed

Despite his criticism, Sadiq also expressed optimism, stating that the salary issue must be resolved. “The current situation cannot continue. Neither the international community nor the Iraqi framework will accept it. We trust the capacity of the Kurdistan government and the leadership of the Prime Minister to find a solution,” he said.

“There is no real problem between Erbil and Baghdad,” Sadiq continued. “The issue lies in Baghdad’s deliberate attempt to weaken the Kurdistan Region economically, not due to any administrative or legal dispute.”

The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Erbil and Baghdad over financial entitlements, with repeated delays in the transfer of salaries and federal budget shares to the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/84 ... g-minister