The Council of Ministers approved a proposal from the Ministry of Health to lift the existing import ban. The new Iraq tobacco import policy allows electronic cigarettes, hookahs, and tobacco products into the country.
However, all imported products must follow Iraq’s Anti-Smoking Law, which remains fully active and enforced. The government aims to regulate the market rather than block access to legal tobacco-related goods.
To ensure safety and quality, several agencies will oversee the process under this new framework. The Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control will set technical standards for these imports. This move aligns with efforts to modernize Iraq’s trade systems and align with international practices.
Meanwhile, the Customs Authority will handle the pricing and customs valuation of tobacco-related imports. They will work closely with importers to ensure fair tax and duty assessments. Commercial attachés in foreign countries will confirm the source and value of imported products.
This step eliminates the need for secondary checks at Iraqi ports and streamlines trade. As a result, importers can move products through Iraq’s systems more quickly and transparently.
The Iraq tobacco import policy provides a clear legal pathway for companies entering the market. Additionally, this policy will help reduce smuggling by offering a legal alternative to illicit goods. By controlling imports directly, Iraq gains more power to monitor what enters its market.
The move also supports the national economy by encouraging lawful business operations. Iraq wants to balance public health priorities with modern trade and regulatory efficiency.
Officials believe the new policy will help regulate electronic products that were previously banned. Although the government lifted the ban, it did not weaken its anti-smoking regulations.
The Iraq tobacco import policy aims to enforce health laws while creating legal trade opportunities. Moving forward, all importers must work with government agencies to meet legal requirements. This new process should bring more transparency and efficiency into Iraq’s tobacco-related imports.
Authorities will continue to monitor the system to ensure it supports health and economic goals.