Baghdad Unveils Five New Medical Production Projects - Non-Oil Sector Income

 

What happened?

On August 28, 2025, Iraq’s Minister of Industry and Minerals, Khalid Battal Al‑Najm, formally launched five advanced medical projects at the Samarra Pharmaceutical Factory in central Baghdad.

What do these projects involve?
These projects consist of five new production lines in pilot mode. They're designed to enable local manufacturing of critical medical supplies—such as surgical sutures, medical textiles, medical gases, and devices—which have traditionally been imported.

Why is this important?

• Reduces dependency on imports: By producing these items locally, Iraq can ensure a more stable supply, especially during global shortages or logistical challenges.

• Boosts domestic industry: The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize Iraq's industrial base.

• Creates jobs and builds capacity: The projects are backed by the Ministry of Industry and Minerals, along with private sector partners, including Al-Waqia Company, Ard Al-Carnav, and the Company for the Manufacture of Medical Supplies and Pharmaceuticals (Iraqi News).

Where is this happening?
At the Baghdad factory of Samarra Pharmaceutical, which is undergoing restoration and modernization to support this expansion of production capabilities 

Summary in Plain Language

Iraq is expanding its healthcare manufacturing capabilities by opening five new production lines in Baghdad. These lines will produce essential medical items, including sutures, textiles, gases, and other devices that were previously mostly imported. The project is a collaboration between the government and private companies, aimed at boosting local production, creating jobs, and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.

Context: Part of a Broader Healthcare Push

These developments occur amid a broader effort in Iraq to enhance the healthcare system. Just days earlier, on August 27, 2025, the Baghdad Factory initiated pilot operations for these production lines, marking the transition from planning to tangible implementation of the initiative.

Also, the Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al‑Sudani, has been spearheading major healthcare infrastructure projects—such as the construction of five new 100-bed hospitals (part of a 16‑hospital initiative) and a vast Integrated Medical City in Dhi Qar containing 13 medical facilities and seven hospitals (700 beds total) (IFP Info - News).