Sudani launches Toyota Iraq project deemed milestone for industry, investment

BAGHDAD– Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani on Wednesday inaugurated the implementation phase of the Toyota Iraq Industrial, Storage, and Service Investment Project in Baghdad, describing it as a milestone for foreign investment and Iraqi industry.

“This is the first project of its kind in Iraq to be implemented by Toyota, which granted the license for its establishment,” Al-Sudani said in remarks released by his office. He added that the initiative “marks the beginning of car manufacturing in Iraq, a goal that is neither difficult nor impossible for Iraqis.”

Al-Sudani said the government has worked since its formation to support the private sector, reduce bureaucratic obstacles, and create what he called an “attractive and secure environment” for investors. He also praised Japan’s role, noting that the project “represents a distinguished form of the growing and evolving relationship between Iraq and Japan.”

Statement from Al-Sudani’s media office:

Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani launched today, Wednesday, the implementation phase of the Toyota Iraq Industrial, Storage, and Service Investment Project in Baghdad.

The Prime Minister welcomed the launch of this investment project, emphasizing that foreign investment has found in Iraq an attractive and secure environment for such ventures. He noted that the project reflects an ambitious model of partnership between the national private sector and leading international companies such as Toyota. It also represents a distinguished form of the growing and evolving relationship between Iraq and Japan. He further commended the role of the Japanese Ambassador for his continued engagement and commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani reiterated that from the first days of its formation, the government has worked to support the private sector, foster a business-friendly environment, and remove obstacles and obstructive bureaucracy that have hindered many projects.

Toyota Iraq Project extends over a total area of 225,000 m², to be implemented in two phases, with a total cost of 30 billion IQD. It will contribute to the gradual transfer of vehicle manufacturing and service technologies to Iraq.

Key points from the Prime Minister’s remarks:

🔷 This is the first project of its kind in Iraq to be implemented by Toyota, which granted the license for its establishment.

🔷 The project is environmentally friendly, in line with the government’s commitment to applying international standards on climate change mitigation and reducing carbon emissions.

🔷 It will provide opportunities for young Iraqis, who represent a source of pride through their skills, talents, and capabilities.

🔷 The project marks the beginning of car manufacturing in Iraq, a goal that is neither difficult nor impossible for Iraqis.

🔷 Creating job opportunities for youth must go hand in hand with building skills, competence, and successful experience.

🔷 Iraq is embarking on a broad process of development, services, and reconstruction, which requires vehicles, machinery, and equipment to meet the needs of this urban and service renaissance.

🔷 The Toyota Iraq Project is the first step on the path of the Development Road, which is truly the people’s project.

🔷 In the past, Iraqi markets relied on neighboring markets, leading to wasted time, lost expertise, and higher costs for consumers. This pioneering project will put an end to such challenges.

🔷 We have directed the amendment of the Commercial Agencies Law to align with the policies of reputable international companies and safeguard their rights.

🔷 Government decisions are consistent with global policies to achieve sustainable development, and Toyota has met these standards with clear results.

🔷 The government reaffirms its firm commitment to supporting a strong and capable private sector, with all state institutions mandated to provide facilitation that lays the foundation for genuine development in our country.