Trade Ministry denies reports claiming it imported $1m worth of garbage bags

BAGHDAD — The Trade Ministry on Tuesday denied reports that it imported garbage bags, calling the claims false and unrelated to any of its responsibilities or contracts.

In a statement, the ministry said it “categorically denies what was circulated in some media outlets and social media regarding the import of garbage bags,” adding that the information “has no connection to reality and is not based on any official procedures or documents.”

A rumor circulating on social media had alleged that the ministry “imports garbage bags worth 1.4 billion dinars (about $986,000),” a claim the ministry said was entirely false.

The statement said the topic “has nothing to do with the ministry at all and is not linked to any procedure or official contract. It is not within its mandate, its work, or any of its companies.”