Dr. Muhammad Abdul Saleh: College of Business Economics – University of Nahrain
- Weak Digital Infrastructure: Although e-commerce has become an important resource for economic diversification, Iraq still faces weak digital infrastructure. Additionally, there is a lack of trust in digital consumption (digital transactions) and other related factors, such as delivery, access speed, and storage.
- Primitive Transactions and E-Stores: In reality, the e-market is underdeveloped, with 80% of e-transactions limited to areas such as food delivery, clothing, and luxury items. These transactions are often conducted through specific applications due to the primitive nature of e-stores in Iraq.
- A Flexible and Integrated Cross-Border Legal and Legislative System: Iraq needs to develop flexible legal systems that can adapt to the rapid advancements in e-commerce. This should include measures to ensure electronic cybersecurity that prevents fraud, hacking, forgery, and counterfeiting, while protecting consumers and instilling greater confidence in transactions. The value of these transactions is expected to reach $655 million by the end of 2025. This also requires the ability to regulate laws in accordance with international trade agreements.
- Digital Solutions: The Iraqi market requires secure and reliable digital payment solutions that facilitate commercial and daily transactions in a safe manner.
- Interventions to Create Awareness: Relevant authorities must prepare programs to raise social awareness about the use of e-commerce platforms, secure payment methods, and the detection of electronic theft.
- Central Classified Database: It is essential to create a classified database that can analyze consumer preferences, track daily transactions, and map the geographical distribution of commercial activities. This will enhance the ability to develop a national strategy for e-commerce and control its future trends, contributing to national development.
- Reforming the Geographical Digital Gap Between Different Iraqi Regions: The digital gap, including disparities in internet access, hinders the spread of online commerce evenly. This limitation impedes widespread adoption of e-commerce, particularly in rural or underserved areas.
- Institutional Integration: Developing and sustaining e-commerce requires coordinated efforts between ministries and state institutions to activate tools such as electronic payments and digital signatures. It also necessitates establishing links between commercial information systems.
- Internet Crimes and Trading Rights: There is an urgent need for legislation addressing internet crimes, including commercial offenses, copyright infringement, trademark violations, and patent rights related to information and data.
- Review of Internet Pricing Policies: Iraq ranks among the most expensive countries globally for internet consumption, placing 179th worldwide. To enhance access, it is crucial to develop pricing mechanisms that make the internet more affordable for marginalized and disadvantaged groups.
