Partners of the European Union-funded Agri-food Business Development Programme convened in Baghdad at a high-level event organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to review progress made across Iraq’s agri-food value chains and explore pathways for increasing private sector investment. The event brought together national authorities, international partners, and private sector representatives to assess how coordinated efforts are contributing to agricultural transformation and economic growth.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Iraq highlighted the importance of strong partnerships in advancing the agri-food sector, emphasizing the programme’s role in job creation, strengthening food security, and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The Agri-food Business Development Programme, launched in 2021, adopts a comprehensive Farm-to-Fork approach to improve agri-food systems from production through processing to market access.
Implemented through a collaboration of seven international partners alongside national institutions, the programme focuses on strengthening value chains, improving livelihoods, and facilitating market development in key agricultural sectors. Representatives from Iraqi ministries, the European Union, partner agencies, and the private sector participated in discussions on overcoming structural challenges such as climate pressures, water scarcity, and weak market linkages.
The European Union emphasized that its support aims to help Iraqi farmers and agri-food enterprises address these constraints while building a more competitive and investable sector. By reducing losses, improving productivity, and creating employment opportunities, the programme has laid the foundation for sustained growth and increased private investment beyond the programme’s duration.
Presentations and visual exhibits showcased concrete results achieved through improved production practices and stronger connections between producers and markets. A mini-market and photo exhibition highlighted value-added products developed under the programme, demonstrating tangible outcomes and new opportunities for private sector engagement across agri-food value chains.
National authorities acknowledged the programme’s contribution to agricultural transformation, noting its role in connecting farmers to markets, strengthening value chains, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. FAO reaffirmed its commitment to a collective approach that aligns national priorities with international expertise to foster market-oriented development and attract future investment.
The event concluded with a high-level panel discussion on enhancing the policy environment, promoting entrepreneurship, and addressing barriers to private sector investment in Iraq’s agri-food sector. An awards and recognition segment underscored partners’ shared commitment to building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agri-food systems capable of supporting long-term economic development.
