IMF says it is working to strengthen partnership with Iraq, sees GDP shrinking in 2026
SPY•The IMF said it was looking to strengthen its partnership with Iraq after the government requested a support program, and expected the country’s GDP to shrink significantly in 2026 before rebounding next year.
1. Iraq seeks IMF support
The IMF said it was looking forward to strengthening its partnership with the Iraqi government after Iraq requested an IMF-support program to help manage the impact of the Middle East war. IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack said Iraq’s GDP was expected to shrink significantly in 2026 before rebounding next year, citing the country’s heavy dependence on oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz and acute financing constraints that predated the war.
