Egyptian academic publisher opens first Iraq branch in Mosul

MOSUL — The Egyptian Academic Center for Publishing has opened its first branch in Iraq, selecting Mosul’s Najafi Street on the city’s west side for the expansion.

The Alexandria-based publisher focuses on academic titles, particularly in law, with additional works in media, education, administration and economics.

“This is our first branch in Iraq and the first Egyptian publishing house to open in Nineveh,” said Kareem Hassan, the center’s representative in Mosul. “We chose Mosul because our publications are most in demand here, and we felt comfortable and stable — especially in Najafi Street.”

Hassan said the company has viewed Iraq as a key market since 2011, initially entering through regional book fairs. “Now we participate in four or five each year,” he said.

The center publishes more than 100 titles annually, with about 80% dedicated to legal studies. “Most of our readers are interested in law. Since the beginning of 2025, we’ve already printed 100 titles,” Hassan said. “All our publications are exclusive to us — they won’t be found in other bookstores.”

Books are popular among Iraqi university students and faculty, with many orders placed online. Prices start at 5,000 dinars (about $3.40), depending on the title.

The center plans to hold small book fairs at universities in Nineveh and is open to publishing local authors. “We might hold seminars and book signings in the future, and we’ll be at the Erbil International Book Fair next month,” Hassan said.

Among the center’s latest titles are legal works by Iraqi authors, including “Studies in Criminal Law,” “Criminal Protection of Copyright,” “The Art of Drafting Procedural Criminal Texts” and “Legislative Jurisdiction of the Prosecutor.” Other recent publications include “Digital Noise,” “Hashtags and Their Role in News Agency Exposure,” “Macroeconomics and Sustainable Development” and “Forex: Between Profits and Losses.”