Required Documents for Exporting to Iraq
Exporting to Iraq is one of Iran's most strategic foreign trade routes. Due to geographical proximity, shared religious and cultural ties, and the high demand in the Iraqi market for Iranian products, it presents a golden opportunity for exporters. However, this trade will only succeed if conducted with full preparation and adherence to customs and trade regulations.
One of the most crucial pillars of success when exporting to Iraq is the complete and precise preparation of all required documents. Below, all necessary documents are listed with a detailed explanation for each.
Business Card
The Business Card is the first legal document required to enter the field of exports. Without this card, no individual or entity can officially export goods from Iran.
Why is a Business Card important?
The Business Card serves as your official identification in international trade. This card allows you to:
- Register and declare goods in the EPL customs system
- Sign contracts with foreign companies
- Open foreign currency accounts and handle money transfers in dollars
- Register as an exporter at the Chamber of Commerce
Eligibility requirements:
- Iranian citizenship
- At least a high school diploma
- No criminal record
- A registered workplace or company
- Completion of foreign trade training courses
This card is issued by the Iran Chamber of Commerce in coordination with the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade (IMT), is generally valid for one year, and can be renewed.
Customs Declaration and Registration in the EPL System
The customs declaration is an official document that reports details of the export goods to the customs office. This document is registered in the EPL system (Iran's Customs Cross-Border Trade Single Window System) and is essential for goods to leave the border.
Contents of the Customs Declaration:
- Exporter and buyer information
- Customs tariff code (HS Code)
- Net and gross weight
- Value of goods in USD or EUR
- Number of packages and type of packaging
- Type of vehicle (truck, container, train, etc.)
This document can be prepared with the help of a customs broker or official customs clearance agent. Errors in the declaration may lead to fines or the detention of goods by customs.
Commercial Invoice
The sales invoice is a formal legal document indicating the final price and agreements between exporter and importer. This document must:
- Be prepared in Arabic or English
- Be accurate, legible, and bear the exporter’s stamp and signature
- Clearly state the final price, currency used, payment terms (LC, TT, cash, etc.), and delivery terms (EXW, FOB, CFR, etc.)
The commercial invoice is the primary financial document for exports and is reviewed by both Iranian and Iraqi authorities.
Packing List
The Packing List is a comprehensive list detailing the packaging and arrangement of items in the shipment.
Information included in this list:
- Number of packages (cartons, boxes, pallets)
- Dimensions and weight of each package
- Contents of each package
- Tracking number or barcodes for goods
- Total gross and net weight of goods
This document helps customs in both Iran and Iraq inspect and approve shipments more quickly. Not having this document may lead to package inspections and delays in clearance.
Certificate of Origin
The Certificate of Origin verifies that the goods were produced or processed in Iran. This certificate is issued by the Iran Chamber of Commerce and is a vital document for entering goods into Iraq.
Why is the Certificate of Origin important?
- Iraqi customs uses it to determine customs tariffs.
- It confirms the Iranian exporter’s legal ownership of the goods.
- It is required for goods that are exported under trade agreements or benefit from customs discounts.
If goods are not made in Iran but have been substantially processed there, it is possible to obtain a Certificate of Origin for them.
Health and Standard Certificates
For certain products, such as foodstuffs, health products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, meat, and dairy products, health and standard certificates are mandatory.
Issuing authorities:
- Food and Drug Administration (for edible and cosmetic items)
- Veterinary Organization (for animal products)
- National Standard Organization of Iran (for goods subject to mandatory standards)
These certificates must be translated, stamped, and up to date. Without them, your goods will not be cleared at the Iraqi border.
Road Waybill (CMR)
For land exports to Iraq, you must obtain an international road waybill (CMR) from the transport company.
Key information on the waybill:
- Names of exporter and importer
- Weight and type of goods
- Number of packages
- Truck and driver information
- Point of origin and destination
The waybill serves as proof of ownership during transport and is required for border crossing and delivery.
Cargo Insurance
Although cargo insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Insurance protects your shipment against risks such as theft, accidents, fire, or damage.
Exporters can use either domestic or international insurance companies to insure their consignments.
Specific or Permanent Permits
Certain goods require special permits for export. These permits are issued by institutions such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, Atomic Energy Organization, Ministry of Oil, or the Ministry of Agriculture Jihad.
Examples:
- Bitumen and petroleum products → Ministry of Oil permit
- Medical equipment → Ministry of Health permit
- Seeds, fertilizers, pesticides → Ministry of Agriculture Jihad permit
If these permits are not obtained, customs will not allow the goods to leave the country.
