Workshop on Key Drivers of Emerging Economy Development:

Osoul Organization for Economic Development and Sustainable Growth, represented by Mr. Khalid Al-Jabri, in cooperation with Bayt Al-Hikma, represented by Dr. Qahtan Ne’ma, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, held a working session to discuss emerging economies and their impact on the national economy, their role in funding and boosting economic activity, reducing unemployment, and mechanisms for diversifying economic resources.

The workshop was attended by a group of experts, academics, and private sector representatives, including Dr. Mudhhir Mohammed Saleh, Advisor to the Prime Minister, and Mr. Falah Al-Amiri. The session was moderated by Dr. Falah Thuwaini.

Representatives from key sectors also participated, including Mr. Raed Abdul-Hussein, Registrar of Companies, and the General Commission for Taxes, represented by Mr. Mohammed Ali Fadel. The Baghdad Council for Digital Transformation and Electronic Payments was also present, represented by its Executive Director Mr. Badr Riyadh, along with Dr. Mustafa Akram Hantoush, an expert and economic researcher, and Mr. Ahmed Abdul-Rabah, an economic journalist.

The workshop addressed several critical topics, most notably the transformation of the grey economy, which constitutes 70% of Iraq’s total economy, into a regulated economy — a cornerstone for Iraq’s future. This transformation begins with a supportive registration environment, focused not on taxation, but on building trust and promoting financial inclusion, coupled with a national plan to rationalize oil spending, support entrepreneurs, and protect startups.

To ensure the sustainability of this path, the workshop emphasized the need for legal reforms, activation of the Consumer Protection Council, and promotion of agricultural investment. A regulated economy and protected innovation are fundamental to overcoming challenges and shaping the future.

Recommendations from the workshop will be submitted to decision-makers.