With international investment, Iraq’s economy stepping toward reviving

23/08/2016

Global oil glut has resulted into geopolitical instability and the economic crash in Iraq. Iraq is one of the largest oil producers, but now it is struggling with its economic wounds. It is an oil reliant economy, and that is why global oil price cut off has moved the country into complete economic disarray.
Foreign investment and business development executives are tentatively considering Iraq as a potential business opportunity again.
Early in the year, General Electric’s confidence in the region is shown by their US$1 billion worth of projects in the country’s electricity infrastructure and continues to see, “growth opportunities going forward.”
The World Bank (International Finance Corporation Branch) similarly showed their support by signing a US$375 million finance package for an Iraqi owned power company, undersigned by Lebanon’s Bank Audi. Moused Makhlouf, IFC Director for the Middle East and North Africa, said their financial aid was also accompanied by “increase in interest by investors from the region.”
Tourism in Iraq may also soon grow as the Wyndham Hotel Group announced they would be constructing two new hotels, one in Najaf which is an area frequently visited by Shiite Muslims for their pilgrimage.
Daniel Ruff, Wyndham’s president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said, “It takes a long time to develop new hotels so you can’t wait until the moment before the thing is in all the travel magazines.” He also noted, “Once you are the first mover you see some opportunities emerging quickly and growth can be really fantastic.”
The International Monetary Fund also recently approved a US$5.3 billion bailout for Iraq, boosting investor confidence. The IMF expects a 7% growth in the economy.

Last Update:: 23/08/2016

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