The Kurdistan Regional Government has introduced new rules requiring all investment and construction projects to follow standards set by the American Concrete Institute (ACI).
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani recommended the decision, and the Presidency of the Council of Ministers approved it. Officials say the policy aims to improve construction quality, strengthen infrastructure, and protect public safety across the Kurdistan Region.
Under the new directive, all companies involved in commercial, residential, and investment projects must follow ACI standards during planning and construction. As a result, developers must meet stricter engineering requirements before they can secure project approvals.
Previously, most projects in the Kurdistan Region followed Iraqi construction codes. However, officials adopted international standards to improve building durability and reduce risks from earthquakes and other natural disasters.
Investment Board spokesperson Bargasht Akreyi said the new rules focus on citizen safety and stronger infrastructure.
He explained that ACI standards rank among the world’s top construction guidelines. Therefore, adopting them will improve building quality and support safer long-term development.
Akreyi also said the decision creates a unified construction system across the Kurdistan Region. In addition, the new standards will simplify licensing procedures because all companies must now meet the same technical requirements.
Officials confirmed that developers must prove compliance with ACI requirements before receiving any investment permit. Consequently, companies must submit designs and engineering plans that match approved international codes.
The government views the policy as an important step toward modernizing the construction sector. Moreover, officials believe stronger regulations will attract more investors by increasing confidence in project quality.
In recent years, the Kurdistan Regional Government has expanded reforms in infrastructure, transportation, energy, and urban development.
Ultimately, officials expect the adoption of ACI standards to protect national investments, improve project durability, and align the Kurdistan Region with leading international construction practices.
