Baghdad – Iraq live animal imports declined sharply in 2025, according to the latest figures released by the International Trade Centre (ITC). The country spent significantly less on imported livestock compared with the previous year. Even with the decline, Iraq remained among the world’s leading importers of live animals.
The latest data showed that Iraq imported $300.1 million worth of live animals during 2025. In 2024, imports reached $577.3 million. This represents a year-on-year decrease of 48%, reflecting a substantial reduction in livestock purchases from international markets.
Despite the lower import value, Iraq ranked 26th globally among the largest importers of live animals. The figures highlight the country’s continued reliance on imported livestock to meet domestic demand. However, spending levels fell considerably compared with previous years.
The United States led global live animal imports with $3.71 billion. Italy followed with $3.58 billion, while the Netherlands recorded $1.98 billion. Hong Kong ranked next with $1.74 billion, followed by Germany at $1.68 billion.
Among Arab countries, Saudi Arabia remained the region’s largest importer of live animals. The kingdom imported livestock worth $1.21 billion during 2025. Morocco ranked second with $764 million, while Oman placed third with $678 million.
The Iraq live animal imports total of $300.1 million placed the country fourth among Arab nations. The United Arab Emirates followed with imports valued at $195.1 million. Jordan ranked next with $184.1 million, according to the ITC data.
Live cattle accounted for the overwhelming majority of Iraq’s livestock imports. Purchases of cattle reached $286.1 million, representing more than 95% of total live animal imports. The figures underline cattle’s central role in supplying Iraq’s meat industry and agricultural sector.
Other livestock categories represented a much smaller share of total imports. Iraq imported $7.2 million worth of live poultry during the year. Imports of sheep and goats reached $4.4 million, making up only a small portion of overall livestock purchases.
Market analysts note that import volumes can change because of domestic production, consumer demand, international prices, and government trade policies. Exchange rates, transportation costs, and regional supply conditions may also influence annual import figures.
Iraq continues to depend on imported livestock to support food supplies and meet local market needs. Authorities regularly monitor livestock trade to help maintain market stability and ensure adequate supplies throughout the country.
Although spending declined considerably, Iraq live animal imports remain an important part of the country’s agricultural and food supply chain. Future trade data will show whether the 2025 decline reflects a temporary adjustment or the beginning of a longer-term trend.