Baghdad, 4 June 2025 (Source-IRU) In a monumental stride towards regional connectivity and global trade integration, Iraq has officially launched the TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) system, marking a new chapter for its logistics sector and economic development. The launch ceremony, held in Baghdad, was attended by senior government officials, private sector leaders, and international partners under the patronage of H.E. Razzaq Muhaibes Al-Saadawi, Iraq’s Minister of Transport. Key contributors to the event included IRU members GCLT and Transforat.
The IRU Secretary General, Umberto de Pretto, delivered an inspiring keynote address, calling the event “a hugely important step” and emphasizing that Iraq’s full implementation of the TIR system revives its historic role as a central hub in global commerce. “What TIR did 75 years ago for Europe, it has continued to do ever since… and now, Iraq,” he said.
The TIR system, backed by a UN mandate and managed by IRU, enables secure, fast, and paperless cross-border trade. In the Middle East, demand for TIR grew by over 400% between 2023 and 2024, and Iraq’s activation of the system is already reducing shipment times by up to 92% at borders compared to traditional routes. For example, land transport from Mersin, Türkiye to the GCC via Iraq now takes under a week—far faster than the 14–26 days required for sea routes.
Iran: A TIR Trailblazer in the Region
One of the earliest adopters of the TIR system in the region, Iran has played a key role in showcasing the benefits of streamlined cross-border transport. Iran’s TIR model was recognized as a shining example of logistical innovation. Iran’s foresight in adopting TIR positioned it as a reliable transit gateway between Central Asia and the Gulf, influencing neighboring countries—including Iraq—to follow this path toward greater trade efficiency and connectivity.
Smart Logistics: Iraq’s Digital Leap
The integration of TIR-EPD (Electronic Pre-Declaration) with Iraq’s URUK platform allows for advance cargo data submission, significantly reducing customs clearance time. With GPS-enabled cargo monitoring and inland clearance offices under discussion, Iraq is aligning itself with global best practices.
Recent successful routes, such as a Poland-to-UAE TIR shipment completed via Iraq in just 12 days, underscore the strategic impact of this transition. These achievements contribute directly to Iraq’s broader Development Road Project, envisioned as a regional trade artery.
IRTCoP Welcomes and Supports Iraq’s Bold Move
In recognition of this historic step, the International Road Transport Chamber of Pakistan (IRTCoP) has officially praised Iraq’s implementation of the TIR system, calling it a bold and visionary move that will elevate the country’s standing in global logistics.
Adv. Rana Asif Khan, President of IRTCoP, stated:
“We fully support Iraq’s adoption of the TIR system, which aligns with our shared vision of a connected, efficient, and secure trade network across the region. Iraq’s leadership in embracing modern logistics sets a strong example for others. We look forward to active cooperation in expanding TIR corridors and promoting regional prosperity.”
