Iraq has declared a temporary ban on poultry imports, effective January 15th, 2026. This strategic move aims to bolster the local poultry industry and encourage domestic production, despite concerns regarding potential price hikes ahead of Ramadan.
The Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture reports that there are currently 1,200 registered poultry farms across Baghdad and other governorates, excluding the Kurdistan region, which also contributes significantly to poultry production.
The industry’s diverse range of farms includes those focusing on broiler meat, eggs, and chicks. The Ministry emphasizes that with this expansive production capability, Iraq can markedly enhance its self-sufficiency in poultry products.
Reviving the Country’s Poultry Industry
The Ministry of Agriculture has characterized the import ban as “one of the most effective tools available to support poultry farmers.” Mahdi Al-Jubouri, the Ministry’s Administrative Undersecretary, highlighted that safeguarding local farmers is essential for revitalizing the poultry sector, which has faced grave challenges due to years of conflict and instability.
“Numerous poultry projects exist in Iraq, and many citizens have suffered devastating losses due to farm closures in recent years,” Al-Jubouri stated. “This import ban is an opportunity to restart these initiatives and reinvigorate the production cycle.”
As the ninth-largest importer of poultry meat globally, Iraq spent approximately US$808 million on poultry imports in 2024, predominantly sourcing from Brazil, Turkey, and the United States.
Systemic Solutions Needed
While the ban on imports is intended to support local farmers, it has raised concerns about food inflation, particularly during Ramadan—a time when protein consumption traditionally surges.
Market analysts, as reported by local news outlet Aboutmsr, suggest that the government should explore more comprehensive solutions. This includes providing direct financial assistance to poultry farmers to bridge the price gap between domestic and imported chicken. Furthermore, it is crucial to guarantee a reliable supply of feed additives and vaccines that are vital for sustaining poultry farm operations.
Experts also recommend fortifying market oversight and ensuring the safety of poultry products throughout the value chain as additional measures to bolster the industry.
