Shafaq News reported on 23 September that Iraq recorded a $10.82 billion merchandise trade surplus in the first quarter of 2026, citing preliminary Central Bank of Iraq figures. Its account puts exports at $19.55 billion, including $18.64 billion of crude oil, and imports excluding freight and insurance at $8.73 billion.
The report also gives a higher import figure of $10.27 billion when freight and insurance are included. Those two import measures should not be interchanged. The desk checked the reported surplus arithmetic but has not independently verified the underlying central-bank table.
Analysis — The figures describe an oil-led external trade balance for a completed quarter. They do not establish a government budget surplus, cash available for public contracts or conditions later in the year. The distinction matters for businesses interpreting a large national surplus as evidence of easier financing or faster payment. Those conclusions require separate fiscal and banking evidence.