Somalia Eyes Iraq as New Market for Livestock Exports

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BAGHDAD: Somalia is seeking to expand its livestock trade into Iraq as Mogadishu steps up efforts to diversify export markets and strengthen economic ties with countries in the Middle East.

The initiative was discussed during talks between Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali and his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, in Baghdad, where the two sides explored ways to deepen trade and agricultural cooperation.

Somalia expressed its interest in beginning live livestock exports to Iraq, potentially creating new opportunities for Somali livestock traders and producers. However, the two governments have yet to announce a timeline or the technical arrangements required to begin shipments.

Livestock is a cornerstone of Somalia’s economy, supporting millions of livelihoods and generating substantial export earnings. The sector is particularly important to pastoralist communities, whose incomes depend heavily on access to regional and international markets.

Somali livestock exports are closely linked to demand in the Middle East, especially during major religious seasons when demand for animals rises. Expanding access to additional markets could help traders broaden their customer base, although new export destinations require compliance with veterinary, quarantine and import regulations.

The proposed Iraqi trade comes as Somalia seeks to translate its diplomatic relationships into practical economic partnerships, with agriculture and trade identified as potential areas for closer cooperation.

During their meeting on the sidelines of the 52nd session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s Council of Foreign Ministers, the two ministers also discussed accelerating the work of the Somalia-Iraq Joint Committee to strengthen government coordination and advance bilateral cooperation.

The discussions signal an interest in broadening relations beyond political engagement, although further negotiations would be needed to establish the arrangements for livestock exports and other commercial exchanges.

Somalia thanked Iraq for hosting the OIC ministerial session and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.