The Arar border crossing between Iraq and Saudi Arabia will help revive the Iraqi economy and generate some 1 billion dollars in revenues in 2021, said the crossing’s director.
In press statements on Sunday, Habib Kadhim al-Ali said the crossing was officially open for trade and will also be open for travelers after coronavirus restrictions on international travel are lifted.
“Relevant departments have completed all their requirements for the full operation of the border crossing, at full capacity and around the clock,” Ali explained.
He said that all material entering through the border must be officially authorized, meaning they must have an official import permit. No material is allowed to enter without a license or certificate of origin.
The border crossing will become a “huge institution and provide great job opportunities for the residents of Anbar and Karbala provinces, in particular, and for Iraqis in general,” he added.
Customs clearance, transportation companies and the establishment of a commercial exchange area will all take place within Iraqi territory, he continued. “This is a unique experience and will be carried out by Iraqi employees, which will increase job opportunities.”
Revenues will be high and will increase in the coming days, Ali noted, stressing that the border crossing will become a gateway for the Arab Gulf states and Egypt to export their products and goods to Iraq.
The State Company for Iraqi Fairs and Commercial Services has launched the Iraqi fairs and import licenses through the Arar border crossing, he said.
The director said the company will start practicing commercial activity and entering the consignments as soon as the goods are shipped from Saudi Arabia, which has been very flexible to avoid any delays and ease the flow of work.
