Latest news with #DePretto
Iraqi News
3 days ago
- Business
- Iraqi News
Iraq activates TIR system boosting international trade & security says IRU head
Baghdad ( – Iraq officially launched the TIR international road transport system on Tuesday (June 3, 2025), a move hailed by the International Road Transport Union (IRU) as a strong signal of the country's openness to secure international business. IRU Secretary-General Umberto de Pretto attended the activation ceremony in Baghdad. De Pretto emphasized that the TIR system, which facilitates streamlined customs transit for goods, will significantly aid Iraq in international transport, an area where it previously lacked such agreements. TIR enables the Iraqi government and IRU to partner towards logistical integration, he stated, noting it acts like a visa for goods, allowing secure passage without repeated inspections. He highlighted TIR's global success, having guaranteed €50 billion for customs authorities worldwide and seen a 400% increase in country membership in 2023-2024 due to its security benefits. 'Iraq joining TIR sends a powerful message that Iraq is open for business securely… a stable and secure country striving for a prosperous economy,' de Pretto added. The activation of TIR in Iraq is seen as vital for enhancing trade, improving logistics, and boosting economic integration.
Iraqi News
3 days ago
- Business
- Iraqi News
IRU: Iraq's Accession to TIR Sends Strong Message of Safe and Open Business Environment
The International Road Transport Union (IRU) affirmed on Tuesday that Iraq's accession to the TIR Convention sends a strong signal of the country's openness to international business in a secure and structured manner. The IRU emphasized that the TIR system enables both the organization and the Iraqi government to work together toward achieving logistical integration. Speaking at the official launch event of the TIR system, attended by an Iraqi News Agency (INA) reporter, IRU Secretary-General Umberto de Pretto said 'We are committed to supporting Iraq in facilitating international transport to and from the country. Iraq previously lacked international transport agreements and regional connectivity, but we have introduced innovative and comprehensive technological solutions.' De Pretto explained that the TIR system, which enables international transport of goods under customs control, allows vehicles to move goods across borders with minimal inspection. 'This concept allows trucks to depart and move cargo without being subjected to constant checks, which is the essence of the TIR system. It paves the way for a strategic partnership between the Iraqi government and the IRU toward achieving logistical integration,' he said. He added that the TIR Convention is among the simplest tools for economic integration, offering a proven system that has helped previously closed countries like Uzbekistan to open up to global trade. 'Implementing the TIR system is a key first step toward the secure and efficient cross-border movement of goods. It provides customs authorities with security guarantees, ensures safe transit, and facilitates duty payments,' he noted. The IRU chief also highlighted the system's technological features 'TIR enables logistical integration, automates the tracking of goods in transit, and digitizes operational processes, including tracking where shipments are, where they're headed, and when they arrive. It also supports human resource automation.' He described TIR as 'a visa for goods,' stressing those countries that do not comply with its standards can be removed from the convention. 'The program's expansion in the Gulf region signals its growing success. Between 2023 and 2024, TIR saw a 400% increase in adoption among countries, driven by the security and efficiency it brings, as well as the support it provides at international border crossings.' De Pretto concluded by stating 'Iraq's accession to the TIR Convention sends a powerful message that the country is open for business and is committed to operating in a safe and stable environment. This initiative is not only important for the transport sector but also plays a vital role in Iraq's broader economic development.'
