The Iraqi General Customs Board has announced plans to implement a new system for traders aimed at regulating imports and curbing currency smuggling. The system is expected to become operational within the next two months.

Advance Authorization System

Samer Qasim Daoud, head of the Iraqi General Customs Board, said the “advance customs authorization” system will be introduced in early December. Under this mechanism, traders will be required to obtain customs clearance before importing goods.

Curbing Currency Smuggling

Daoud explained that the new procedure will prevent businesses from transferring funds abroad without importing goods in return, a practice often linked to currency smuggling. The initiative is part of a broader government effort to stabilize foreign exchange flows and strengthen oversight of trade operations.

Rising Customs Revenues

The board reported a 150 percent increase in customs revenue compared to last year, attributing the rise to improved facilitation and digital integration of customs procedures at border crossings.

Integration with the Kurdistan Region

In September, a joint committee was formed to connect the Kurdistan Region’s border gates to Iraq’s national electronic customs system, “ASYCUDA.”
This integration aims to streamline trade, enhance transparency, and eliminate the issue of double taxation on goods entering other Iraqi provinces through the Kurdistan Region.