Iraq’s 19-year-long push to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) is gathering pace. Baghdad initially submitted a request to join the international trade body back in 2004. It currently sits as an observer member, while it works through the process of implementing regulations, strategies, and internal policies necessary to meet the conditions for full membership.

Israa Al-Jabari, the international trade coordinator at Iraq’s trade ministry, last summer told state media that her ministry is in charge of working to prepare the required documents for joining the WTO. “Iraq has the industrial, agricultural, and trade exchange qualifications. However, it needs to study and develop the applicable policies to align with the organization’s regulations,” Jabari said, adding that the country is “currently in the middle of the road to join.” The official insisted that it is important for Iraq to join the WTO to improve its access to global trade, industry, and economic opportunities, as well as aligning national economic and...