The Market
The Iraqi pharmaceutical market is one of the largest and fastest-growing healthcare markets in the Middle East. With estimated annual pharmaceutical expenditure exceeding USD 2 billion, Iraq remains heavily dependent on imported healthcare products — approximately 90% of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, dietary supplements and healthcare products are imported.
Unlike regional markets where domestic manufacturing dominates several therapeutic areas, Iraq continues to rely on international manufacturers to meet growing healthcare demand.
A Market Driven by Demand
Healthcare ranks among the highest priorities for Iraqi families, who are willing to allocate a substantial share of household income to medicines and treatment. That demand produces a resilient market — one that has continued to attract international manufacturers through economic and political fluctuation.
Underserved Segments
Several therapeutic areas remain significantly underserved, including prescription pharmaceuticals, oncology, diabetes care, cardiovascular medicines, nutraceuticals, medical devices, wound care, hospital products and consumer healthcare.
Two Channels, One Market
The Iraqi healthcare market operates through two complementary channels:
- Government procurement through KIMADIA, serving public hospitals and facilities
- A rapidly growing private sector of hospitals, pharmacies and private clinics
Companies capable of operating in both significantly expand their reach — but each channel carries different commercial logic, payment behaviour and volume profile.
⭐ ESHNUNNA Insight
Iraq's registry contains more than 1,800 registered companies and over 12,600 registered products — yet the median manufacturer holds one registered product. Fewer than one in five holds more than two.
The pattern is not one of failed entry. It is one of stalled expansion: companies enter, register a single product, and stop. The second registration is where portfolios are won or abandoned — and it receives a fraction of the attention the first one did.
Why Companies Fail
Despite the market's potential, many international manufacturers fail to establish a successful presence. Failure is rarely caused by product quality. It is almost always the result of insufficient understanding of the regulatory environment and the commercial landscape.
The ESHNUNNA Perspective
Success in Iraq begins long before product registration. It requires understanding Iraqi regulations, selecting the right entry strategy and the right local partner, preparing dossiers correctly, and building a commercialisation plan that reflects how the market actually operates.
Companies that invest in these foundations materially improve their odds of long-term success.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal, regulatory or commercial advice. Iraqi regulations are subject to change; confirm current requirements with the competent authorities or through a licensed scientific bureau before acting.
Where does your portfolio stand in Iraq?
If you hold one or two registrations and a much larger global portfolio, the gap is usually structural — and addressable.
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