Baghdad – Turkish exports to Iraq declined significantly in May 2026, reflecting a slowdown in trade between the neighboring countries. New data from the Turkish Statistical Institute showed that export values dropped compared with the same month last year. Despite the decline, Iraq remained one of Türkiye’s most important export markets.
According to the latest figures, Turkish exports to Iraq reached $821.3 million in May 2026. During the same month in 2025, exports totaled $1.118 billion. The difference represents a year-on-year decline of 26.5%, highlighting weaker trade activity during the month.
The decrease also reduced Iraq’s share of Türkiye’s total exports. In May 2025, Iraq accounted for 4.5% of Turkish exports. That figure fell to 3.7% in May 2026, indicating a smaller contribution to Türkiye’s overall export performance.
Trade data for the first five months of the year also pointed to continued weakness. Between January and May 2026, exports from Türkiye to Iraq reached $3.977 billion. During the same period in 2025, exports totaled $4.870 billion.
The figures show an overall decline of 18.3% during the first five months of the year. Although exports remained substantial, the slowdown suggests changing trade patterns between the two countries. Economists often monitor these trends as an indicator of regional commercial activity.
Despite the decline, Turkish exports to Iraq continue to play an important role in bilateral trade. Iraq remained Türkiye’s seventh-largest export destination during the reporting period. The country’s position demonstrates the continued importance of the Iraqi market for Turkish manufacturers and exporters.
Only six countries received more Turkish exports than Iraq. Those markets included Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and France. Iraq remained ahead of many other international destinations despite the recent decline in trade value.
Trade relations between Iraq and Türkiye cover a wide range of products, including food, construction materials, machinery, household goods, textiles, and industrial equipment. Strong geographic links and established commercial networks continue to support economic cooperation between the neighboring countries.
Analysts say monthly trade figures can fluctuate because of market demand, exchange rates, logistics, and regional economic conditions. However, businesses will closely monitor future data to determine whether the decline represents a temporary slowdown or part of a longer trend.
Both Iraq and Türkiye continue to maintain strong economic ties across multiple sectors. Future infrastructure projects, cross-border trade initiatives, and investment opportunities could help strengthen commercial relations in the coming months. Stable economic cooperation remains important for both countries as they seek to expand regional trade.
The latest figures show that Turkish exports to Iraq remain significant despite recent declines. As trade conditions evolve, both governments and businesses will watch future export data for signs of recovery and renewed commercial growth.