Iraq’s untapped natural wealth, decades of under-investment, and a neglected infrastructure create numerous investment opportunities within the transportation industry. As with most countries, roads and bridges are a primary lifeline for economic growth. Iraq has more than 44,000 km of paved highways, as well as an extensive rural unpaved road system. The highway and bridge system provides the primary surface transportation links connecting Iraq to its neighbours and serves as a catalyst for economic growth. An integrated road network supports tourism and connects the country’s population centres to essential services, while promoting internal commerce. Many of the roads and bridges on the national highway system were paved and constructed in the late 1970s and early 1980s and were designed with a 20 year lifespan. Much of this infrastructure is in need of extensive rehabilitation and replacement. In addition, new population centres have emerged, creating the need for expansion of the highway system on a national level. With funding necessary to rehabilitate or replace paved roads estimated at $1M USD per kilometre, current investment requirements in Iraq’s road infrastructure for rehabilitation exceed $40B USD. Iraq’s civil aviation sector is moving toward compliance with International Civil Aviation Standards as Iraqi Airways continues to rehabilitate its aging fleet. The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA) seeks to transform Iraq’s civil aviation system into a results-based, value-driven organization of aviation professionals dedicated to excellence on the ground and in the skies. As a developing country, Iraq’s potential is bright in the aviation industry. Investment in Iraq’s aviation system offers many opportunities, including airport operations and management, concessions, security, air traffic control and technical infrastructure. Maritime ports serve Iraq as the primary gateway for the import and export of goods and also provide an entry point for passengers. The ports of Iraq are owned and operated by the Government of Iraq. The MoT and the General Company for Ports (GCPI) of Iraq envision the ports of Iraq as the connection bridging the Far East and the West while serving as an economic catalyst and providing for the welfare of the people of Iraq. The ports of Iraq strive to operate efficiently and effectively, using sound business practices and meeting standards defined by the International Maritime Organization. Ministry of Transport is interested in developing new port infrastructure on the Al Faw peninsula, estimated to cost, if fully developed up to $15 billion. The Iraqi Republic Railroad (IRR) is one of the main modes of surface transportation for the import and export of goods and efficient hauling of bulk commodities and passengers within the country. The IRR is owned and operated by the government. Iraq is focused on the safe transport of containers, bulk commodities and passengers in a cost efficient and safe environment while maintaining safety and operating standards defined by the International Union of Railways.
