Lebanon and Iraq Agree on Urgent Measures to Facilitate Exports of Lebanese Products

Minister of Economy and Trade Amer Bsat announced via MTV that he agreed with the Head of the Iraqi Border Ports Authority, Lieutenant General Dr. Omar Al-Waeli, on urgent measures to address export obstacles, as follows:

1- Utilizing Return Loads: Allowing Lebanese trucks to load goods on their return trip, provided that their final destination is Lebanon, and that they are not designated for distribution or unloading within Iraq, Syria, or Turkey.

2- The Border Ports Authority will contact the Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture and request that it notify the Lebanese side at least one month in advance of any protective decisions or measures affecting specific materials or products, to avoid truck stoppages, spoilage of goods, and additional losses for exporters.

3- Organizing mechanisms for transporting Lebanese exports to Iraq, ensuring the preservation of the identity of Lebanese goods and restricting their transport to vehicles approved by Lebanese drivers.

4- Facilitating Transit: Communicating with border and customs administrations in sister countries to improve the passage of Lebanese trucks and goods destined for Iraq.

5- Fuel Refueling Facilities: Allowing Lebanese trucks to refuel in Iraq during their return journey to Lebanon without hindrance.

Minister Bsat affirmed that "Iraq is a fundamental market for Lebanese products. The steps we agreed upon today aim to reduce transportation costs, limit exporters' losses, and enhance the competitiveness of our products in the Iraqi market. We will follow up on their implementation with the Iraqi authorities and inform the relevant parties."