Iraq Plast and Agro Pack 2024 surpassed all previous editions to become the largest plastics and agrofood event in Iraq to date. The co-located events were held from 25-28 November, 2024, at the Erbil International Fairground.
Overwhelming Market Demand
Due to the unprecedented demand, So Fuar and fair trade – the event organisers – used both halls of the Erbil fairground to offer attendees a comprehensive and intensive experience.
The 7th edition of Agro Pack Iraq focused on technology and materials for food and beverage packaging and processing. At the same time, the 5th edition of Iraq Plast gathered international and national suppliers of plastics raw materials as well as machinery and equipment for plastics processing.
Visitors had the chance to explore solutions aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing sustainability, and addressing the unique challenges of the Iraqi market.
The expo also sent out a clear signal of the political will to expand local food production and the ‘Made in Iraq’ trend, expecting continuous growth in the coming years.
Top Companies Participate
317 exhibitors from 18 countries, including Algeria, Austria, China, Egypt, India, Iran, Switzerland, and Turkey participated in Erbil. The event provided an ideal platform to connect with industry leaders and foster insightful discussions about the future of packaging and printing in Iraq. The strong interest in cutting-edge technology and sustainable solutions reflects Iraq’s drive to strengthen its global competitiveness.
Packaging giant BOBST showcased its state-of-the-art solutions for the printing and packaging industries. “We’re thrilled to be part of this dynamic platform, showcasing how BOBST solutions empower the packaging and printing industries. BOBST experts presented a range of innovations specifically designed to meet regional needs,” says Mohamed Hassairi, Regional Marketing & Communications Manager Bobst Africa & Middle East and Turkey/Caucasus.
“BOBST’s focus went beyond technology, prioritising collaboration and tailored strategies to help customers succeed in a rapidly evolving landscape. By turning challenges into opportunities, BOBST aims to drive innovation and be a catalyst for success in this promising market,” adds Hassairi.
After four days of fruitful discussions and networking, all the exhibitors emerged with a stronger resolve to contribute toward the development of the Iraqi packaging sector.
Third Largest Arab Importer of Packaging Technology and F&B Process
VDMA, the German Engineering Federation, states that Iraq’s plastics technology imports had an annual growth of 18.6%, from 20 million euros in 2017 to 47 million euros in 2022. Printing and paper technology imports had a huge 47.6% annual growth, from 5 million euros in 2017 to 35 million euros in 2022. Between 2015 and 2022, Iraq’s imports of food and beverage process and packaging technology increased with an annual growth rate of 15.5%, from 76 million euros to 209 million euros. This makes Iraq the third largest Arab country, after Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to import such technologies in the Middle East.
