Rewbwar Omer and his printing house. Photo: 964
Outsourcing
Local printing industry in crisis
SULAYMANIYAH, January 28 — The local printing industry in Sulaymaniyah is facing a sharp decline, as detailed by Rebwar Omer, owner of a printing house in the city.
Omer, in a conversation with 964media, highlighted the closure of three printing houses in a short period and a significant shrinkage in the market, primarily due to the outsourcing of printing work to Iran and Turkey. “We might also have to shut down,” Omer expressed concern.
He explained that the trend of outsourcing to Iran and Turkey, often without legal permits, for printing books is a key factor contributing to the decline in local businesses.
This shift might be driven by cost-effectiveness, access to advanced printing technologies, or broader distribution networks available in these neighboring countries.
“The situation for print houses here is very bad. Recently, three have shut down, selling off their equipment and ceasing operations,” Omer added.
Further emphasizing the crisis, Omer disclosed, “A few years ago, I employed 19 workers, but now only two remain.”
Kurdish lexicographer awaits publication of his 'Idiom Dictionary'
Basra: Bookstore fights for survival with gemstone strategy
