Baghdad: Iraq is preparing to export processed dates to Europe as part of a new initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Trade. According to National Iraqi News Agency, the ministry has developed a comprehensive plan to support the transition from exporting raw dates to supplying fully or semi-processed products. This move aims to enhance marketing strategies for Iraq’s premier national product and is based on agreements that are currently being finalized.

Dr. Malik al-Duraie, Director General of the Private Sector Development Department at the ministry, emphasized the importance of this plan in developing the date crop industry. He noted that while dates are typically exported raw to countries like the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for processing and re-export, Iraq intends to shift this dynamic by exporting processed dates directly to Europe. This initiative involves collaboration with Italian experts who will conduct training workshops to help Iraqi producers meet the stringent standards required for European markets.

In addition to these efforts, the Ministry is preparing the infrastructure necessary to facilitate the export of dates through its own channels. This includes increasing production lines in factories to meet anticipated demand. Dr. al-Duraie highlighted the significance of advancing the Iraqi date production and marketing sector to bolster the country’s economic development, drawing from the successful experiences of other regional nations.

Furthermore, the Ministry has formed a preparatory committee to organize the Iraqi Dates Exhibition in collaboration with the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and the Iraqi Dates Council. Scheduled for October 31st at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds, the two-day event will feature 600 varieties of Iraqi dates, attracting local and international stakeholders in the industry. The exhibition will also host an economic forum to discuss relevant ideas and strategies for enhancing the sector’s growth.