Economist: Raising taxes is an ill-considered decision.
Economist: Raising taxes is an ill-considered decision.
1-5-2026
Al-Maalomah/Anbar –
Economic expert Rashid al-Saadi described the central government’s move to increase taxes on citizens and various sectors as an ill-conceived decision, calling instead for the adoption of tax exemptions to alleviate the cost of living burdens faced by Iraqi citizens.
Al-Saadi told Al-Maalomah News Agency, “Imposing additional taxes on citizens and economic sectors under the current circumstances is an incorrect approach. The government should have taken the opposite measures, such as reducing taxes and granting exemptions that contribute to easing the cost of living pressures and stimulating economic activity.”
He added, “Tax exemptions would revitalize the agricultural, industrial, tourism, and service sectors, opening up opportunities for them to absorb large numbers of unemployed people, in addition to their role in curbing price increases.”
Al-Saadi explained that “the continued operation of these sectors directly contributes to supporting the government in creating job opportunities, especially given the graduation of approximately 250,000 students annually, in addition to the nearly one million students currently expected to graduate within the next four years. This necessitates a clear economic vision to secure employment opportunities for them.”
He emphasized that “tax reductions and exemptions not only positively impact the labor market but also contribute to easing the burden on citizens amidst the economic and living challenges the country is facing.”
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