An American trade and investment delegation has arrived in Erbil to explore new business opportunities in the Kurdistan Region. The delegation is focusing on strategic sectors outside the oil industry. The visit also highlights the growing economic ties between the United States and the Kurdistan Region.
Mohammad Shukri, Chairman of the Kurdistan Region Investment Board, said the delegation represents a major American company that operates in 18 countries. He said that the delegation will meet Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. During the meeting, both sides will discuss commercial cooperation and large investment projects.
Shukri said the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) wants to diversify its sources of income. Therefore, it seeks more foreign investment and less dependence on oil revenues. He added that American companies can play an important role in this strategy.
According to Shukri, urban development, healthcare, and tourism offer strong opportunities for future partnerships. Moreover, the Prime Minister wants international companies to see conditions in the Kurdistan Region firsthand. He also wants them to launch long-term strategic projects.
Meanwhile, Shukri announced that the Kurdistan Region and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will hold a joint economic forum in Washington next July. The event aims to attract foreign capital and deepen economic relations.
According to the General Directorate of Company Registration, 169 American companies currently operate in the Kurdistan Region. Among them, 155 companies are based in Erbil. They work in several commercial sectors.
The latest visit follows another important mission in October 2025. At that time, representatives from Google, IBM, Visa, PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola visited the Kurdistan Region. They explored investment opportunities and reviewed the government’s reform plans.
Additionally, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani presented the KRG’s economic reform agenda during that visit. He stressed the importance of economic diversification and investment-friendly policies.
The arrival of the new American delegation shows the KRG’s continued efforts to attract global investors. As a result, the Kurdistan Region is strengthening its position as a regional hub for investment, economic growth, and international business partnerships.
