International trade between Iraq and Lebanon witnessed a significant recovery during the second quarter of 2026, as Lebanese exports to the Iraqi market recorded a qualitative leap, reaching a value of approximately $597 million USD. This growth, which amounted to 67.2% compared to the first quarter, reflects the escalating pace of commercial activity and the movement of imports and exports, opening broad horizons for companies and investors to strengthen cross-border trade partnerships.
Gold and Industrial Materials at the Forefront of Exchanged Commodities
According to the latest data issued by the International Trade Centre, the significant increase in the volume of Lebanese exports was primarily concentrated in the precious metals sector. "Gold" (including unwrought gold) topped the list of Iraqi imports from Lebanon, recording a massive jump from $34 million in the first quarter to $204 million in the second quarter.
Alongside precious metals, the import basket diversified to include various strategic and industrial goods, most notably:
Scrap and metal waste (copper, aluminum, and iron).
Raw lead and electrical transformers.
Phosphatic fertilizers and natural calcium phosphates.
Consumer products such as clothing, prepared fruits, and nuts.
Legal and Regulatory Dimensions of Import and Export Operations
This accelerated growth in the volume of trade exchange and the flow of high-value goods, such as gold and industrial materials, requires commercial companies and suppliers to fully comply with legal regulations to avoid customs and financial risks. The importance of several regulatory aspects is highlighted here:
Supply contracts and international shipping: Drafting solid commercial contracts that guarantee the rights of parties and clearly define delivery mechanisms and payment terms in accordance with international commercial customs (Incoterms).
Compliance with customs legislation: Adherence to the instructions of the General Commission of Customs and the regulations of the Central Bank of Iraq regarding the transfer of funds related to import operations, especially for precious commodities like gold.
Licenses and formal approvals: Obtaining import licenses and the necessary permits for chemical and industrial materials to ensure their smooth passage through border crossings.
Securing Your Cross-Border Commercial Operations: With the increasing opportunities for trade exchange and the growth of Iraqi market imports, the need for a legal framework that protects import and export operations becomes of paramount importance. We at Ayman Mahdi Al-Jubouri & Partners Co. for Legal and Financial Services provide suppliers and commercial companies with specialized legal consultations in drafting international supply contracts, facilitating customs procedures, and ensuring full compliance with Iraqi financial and commercial regulations. Contact our team to ensure your business operations run with high efficiency and reliability.
