The challenges facing the trade and industry sectors, alongside the Kurdistan Regional Government's plans and measures to address them in the coming years, were thoroughly discussed by industry experts and factory owners in a focus group organized by Vision Foundation.

Held on Monday, October 12, 2026, at the Vision Foundation for Strategic Studies, focus group examined the obstacles hindering industrial projects, including regulatory frameworks, implementation processes, licensing procedures, high taxes and fees, and the cost of electricity.

Participants pointed out that the Kurdistan Regional Government lacks adequate support for the industrial sector, creating significant burdens across multiple areas. The discussions also addressed issues such as exorbitant electricity rates, absence of export subsidies, lack of bank loans, and difficulties in acquiring land allocations for industrial initiatives.

Furthermore, it was emphasized that the rigid enforcement of regulations in Sulaymaniyah Governorate places severe strain on factory owners so much so that investors and entrepreneurs with new business ideas are often hindered from turning their projects into reality.

Vision Foundation for Strategic Studies will incorporate the insights from these discussions into a comprehensive roadmap in the near future, working toward the reinforcement of diverse sectors in support of good governance.