Iraq Set to Climb Economic Ranks with 4.1% Growth Projection for 2025
The IMF projects Iraq will emerge as a top economic contender among Arab oil producers with a 4.1% growth rate in 2025.

Iraq is on the verge of an economic upswing, predicted to be a standout performer among Arab oil-producing nations. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced that Iraq’s economy is expected to expand by an impressive 4.1% in 2025. This climb is a significant leap from the mere 0.1% expected in 2024, signaling a robust potential comeback for the nation.
A Stellar Line-Up of Economic Players
In the league of economic growth, Libya is slated to lead with a jaw-dropping 13.7% growth rate. Following suit, the United Arab Emirates projects a 5.1% increase, Saudi Arabia forecasts 4.6%, and Iraq right behind, sharing similar prospects with Algeria at 4%. As stated in Iraqi News, this trajectory positions Iraq at the forefront of economic development within the region.
Adjustments in Economic Horizons
The IMF’s revised projections present a more nuanced view of the Middle Eastern and North African region’s oil-exporting economies. The reduction of the forecast to 2.3% for the region highlights shifting economic tides and challenges these oil-rich nations face in the global market.
The World Bank’s Optimistic Outlook
Mid-June insights from the World Bank further echo optimism, forecasting a 1.2% growth rate for Iraq in 2025. This comes as a recovery from a downturn of -1.5% in 2024. The World Bank anticipates growth reaching a peak at 4.4% in 2026 before a slight decline to 3.1% in 2027, demonstrating a continued upward trend.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Jean-Christophe Carret, the World Bank Country Director for the Middle East Department, has reiterated the Bank’s unwavering support towards Iraq’s developmental aims. The focus remains on enhancing Iraq’s ability to deftly manage its economic challenges while prioritizing sustainable developmental goals.
Concluding Notes
These projections underscore Iraq’s potential resurgence as a key player in the global oil landscape. By fostering robust economic growth and effective management strategies, Iraq could indeed become a beacon of economic progress within the region.
With such promising prospects, Iraq is poised to take significant strides in the economic arena, enhancing its status and influence in the geopolitical sphere.