EU-Funded Programme Strengthens Iraq’s Agri-Food Value Chains

Partners of the Agri-food Business Development Programme (AfBDP) reviewed progress across Iraq’s agri-food value chains and discussed ways to boost private sector investment during a high-level event in Baghdad, organisers said.

The event, hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), brought together representatives from the European Union Delegation to Iraq, the ministries of agriculture, planning and water resources, international agencies and private sector actors.

UN Resident Coordinator in Iraq Ghulam Isaczai said the programme highlights the value of coordinated partnerships in creating jobs, strengthening food security and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. He stressed that cooperation between national and international partners is vital to transforming Iraq’s agricultural sector.

Launched in 2021, the AfBDP follows a Farm-to-Fork approach and unites seven international partners , FAO, GIZ, IOM, ILO, ITC, UNESCO and Cowater International working with Iraqi institutions to strengthen value chains, improve market access and support sustainable livelihoods.

EU Ambassador to Iraq Klemens Semtner said the programme has helped farmers and agri-food businesses tackle challenges including climate pressures, water scarcity and weak market linkages, making the sector more attractive to private investors.

Participants said continued international cooperation and supportive policies are essential to building a competitive, market-oriented agri-food sector capable of driving economic diversification and long-term investment.

Source: UNESCO