Sema
The Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Board of Investment has organized the Kurdistan–Netherlands Economic Forum in The Hague, taking place from June 9 to 13, to present key investment opportunities in the Kurdistan Region to international businesses.
In a post on LinkedIn, the Board of Investment stated: “The Kurdistan–Netherlands Economic Forum established new frameworks for economic cooperation, with a strategic focus on agribusiness development, water infrastructure modernization, and clean energy solutions.”
The delegation, consisting of the Chairman of the Board of Investment, Mohammed Shukri, and the Minister of Agriculture, Begard Talabani, is set to highlight major investment opportunities in the Kurdistan Region, with a strong emphasis on industry and agriculture. The visit reflects the KRG’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment amid shifting regional dynamics.
Speaking to Kurdistan 24, Shukri confirmed that the KRG is accompanied by 20 companies from across the Region. “We want to introduce the Kurdistan Region to international companies and attract investors, especially in the fields of industry, food, and agriculture,” he stated.
Kurdistan’s economy has long depended on oil exports, but regional officials have repeatedly emphasized the need for economic reform and diversification, particularly following disruptions caused by falling oil prices and delays in budget transfers from Baghdad. The delegation’s presence in the Netherlands aims to promote sectors with untapped potential, such as agribusiness, light manufacturing, and renewable energy.
Shukri stressed the importance of reducing reliance on oil revenues and creating sustainable economic alternatives. The two-day forum will also highlight potential growth areas in tourism, higher education, healthcare, technology, and water management—sectors where Dutch expertise is especially relevant.
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s leaders in agricultural innovation, water technology, and food processing, making it an attractive partner for the KRG’s development goals. The KRG plans to collaborate with Dutch experts to introduce new agricultural products in the Region. The goal is to enhance domestic production and develop the food industry to meet local needs while expanding exports of Kurdish food abroad.
In recent years, the Kurdistan Region has positioned itself as a gateway to Iraq and a stable environment for foreign investors. Initiatives such as streamlined investment procedures and incentives for international companies are part of broader reforms aimed at fostering long-term economic partnerships.