2024 has been a year of unprecedented stability in Iraq for consumers and suppliers. This stability is linked to the 10% revaluation of the Iraqi currency in 2023, which has helped keep prices stable and even lowered prices in some categories of staple foods.
Baked goods and rice, pasta and noodles continue to dominate sales of staple foods in Iraq. However, consumer behaviour is shifting towards trendier and healthier options, especially in urban centres and among the younger generations.
Consumers are shifting towards healthier options, with rice suppliers reporting lower sales compared to previous years. This change is being driven by multiple factors, including urbanisation, greater health awareness, and Iraqis spending their extra income on higher quality food.
Thanks to greater stability in Iraq and solid economic growth there have been changes seen in the consumption habits of some locals, especially more affluent ones. However, it should be noted that the majority of local consumers continue to struggle on low incomes and they are generally highly price-sensitive, meaning that they continue to prefer the cheapest options available, especially in baked goods.
The government is investing heavily in the country’s infrastructure which is reducing transportation costs, especially in the central regions. However, there remains a significant infrastructure gap, and much more investment is needed to develop the economy and fulfil the market’s potential.
Staple foods is projected to see steady growth in retail volume terms with less developed categories such as processed meat, seafood and alternatives to meat, pasta and breakfast cereals likely to see the strongest growth. Bread and rice consumption in Iraq is still much higher compared to other countries although rice consumption is starting to decline as people switch to pasta.
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Understand the latest market trends and future growth opportunities for the Staple Foods industry in Iraq with research from Euromonitor International's team of in-country analysts – experts by industry and geographic specialisation.
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Staple Foods
NOTE: Couscous, polenta and quinoa are excluded from staple foods.
See All of Our DefinitionsThis report originates from Passport, our Staple Foods research and analysis database.
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