Advanced steps towards joining the World Trade Organization

Advanced steps towards joining the World Trade OrganizationThe Ministry of Trade confirmed that Iraq is continuing its progress toward joining the World Trade Organization (WTO) after resuming the process that had been stalled for more than sixteen years.

The ministry’s official spokesperson, Mohammed Hanoun, told Al-Sabah that the ministry has completed the basic technical and legislative files in preparation for entering into bilateral negotiations with the organization’s member states.

Hanoun explained that the Ministry has completed seven major files, including the memorandum on the foreign trade system, agricultural support, import and export licenses, customs valuation, and technical standards for trade. It has also submitted the initial offer for goods and services to the WTO Secretariat.

He explained that joining would contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy and supporting Iraqi exports, especially in the agriculture, industry and services sectors, stressing that the government is adopting a policy of gradual and disciplined openness to protect producers and consumers and achieve sustainable development.

Alsabaah.iq