The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and Iraq’s federal government have reached a major agreement to unify customs policies and jointly manage border crossings. The move aims to boost coordination, improve revenue collection, and increase transparency amid regional instability.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein chaired the 13th meeting of the Ministerial Council for the Economy. A high-level KRG delegation attended the meeting. Officials focused on aligning customs procedures across federal and regional border points.
Both sides agreed to standardize tariffs and protect domestic products. Baghdad will retain full authority over national customs policy. This approach preserves federal control while addressing regional needs.
The KRG agreement with Iraq’s federal government introduces the ASYCUDA electronic customs system at border crossings in the Kurdistan Region. The system will streamline procedures and reduce inefficiencies. It will also improve transparency in customs operations. Baghdad and Erbil will jointly manage customs under this framework.
The KRG delegation included senior officials and representatives from chambers of commerce. Delegates came from Erbil, Sulaimani, Duhok, and Halabja. Their participation showed broad regional support for the agreement.
Technical teams will now work to unify procedures. The KRG’s General Directorate of Customs will coordinate with Iraq’s Ministry of Finance. They will design practical mechanisms and respect the region’s legal structure. Both sides plan to submit a joint report within days.
Hussein warned that Iraq faces growing security and economic challenges. He urged stronger national coordination to address these pressures. KRG officials expressed support for digitizing customs systems. They highlighted the potential to increase revenues and strengthen transparency.
In a separate decision, the council designated the Trebil Border Crossing as an entry point for gold imports. Authorities introduced this temporary measure due to flight restrictions. The crossing connects Iraq and Jordan and plays a key role in trade and travel.
