Kurdistan Region sees surge in vehicle imports with over 171,000 cars entering in 2024

ERBIL — The Kurdistan Region imported 171,952 vehicles in 2024, reflecting a significant increase compared to previous years. This represents a notable increase compared to 2023, when 122,000 vehicles were imported.

Nawzad Sheikh Kamil, General Director of Trade in the Kurdistan Regional Government, stated during a press briefing on Sunday that 924 permits were issued for car imports last year.

“Over 171,000 vehicles entered the Kurdistan Region in 2024, facilitated through 924 official permits granted to importers,” Sheikh Kamil said.

There are more than two million registered vehicles in the Kurdistan Region, a number that highlights significant growth in vehicle ownership. This means, on average, there is one vehicle for every three residents in the region.

Despite this surge, according to Asaad Mala Karim, Director of Planning and Statistics at the Kurdistan Region’s General Directorate of Traffic, public transportation infrastructure remains underdeveloped, with current systems falling short of meeting the region’s needs.

According to Kurdistan Regional Government regulations, vehicles older than two years are not allowed into the region. In September 2024, Nawzad Sheikh Kamil, the General Director of Trade, announced that imports of all 2022 model cars will be banned starting Dec.. 1, 2024.

“No 2022 model vehicles will be permitted entry into the Kurdistan Region after November,” Sheikh Kamil stated. He further clarified that imports of 2023 and 2024 model cars will continue without restrictions, ensuring a consistent supply of newer vehicles to the local market.

In recent years, the Kurdistan Region has experienced a significant increase in the import of Chinese-owned makes, with brands like MG and Geely becoming increasingly prevalent on the streets. This surge is largely attributed to the affordability of Chinese vehicles compared to their counterparts.

At the 9th International Auto Show in Erbil, Chinese manufacturers accounted for half of the participating companies, underscoring their growing presence in the local market. The availability of installment payment options and competitive pricing have further boosted their appeal among buyers in the region.

This article has been amended to correct a date in the lede