Erbil, Iraq – September 2025
Dr. Emad Ballack, Founder & CEO of ZiBox and Chairman of MENA International, participated as a distinguished panelist at the 1001 Businessmen Forum held in Erbil, Kurdistan Region. The panel, titled “Doing Business in Changing Iraq”, brought together leading voices from business and policy to discuss opportunities and challenges in Iraq’s evolving economic landscape.
Moderated by Dr. Pakzad Saleh (American University of Iraq, Sulaimani), the session featured Dr. Ballack alongside Dr. Arshad Taha (Senior Advisor on Finance & Economy, Kurdistan Parliament).
Key Discussion Points
During the 30-minute panel and 20-minute Q&A, Dr. Ballack shared insights drawn from his entrepreneurial journey and international trade experience:
Resilience in Times of Instability – Practical strategies for startups and businesses to adapt and thrive in Iraq’s unpredictable environment.
Currency Volatility – How companies can structure pricing, contracts, and planning to manage IQD/USD fluctuations.
Supply Chain Reliability – Leveraging regional partnerships and international networks to overcome bottlenecks.
Talent Retention – Maintaining capacity and motivating top talent even during economic or political downturns.
Advice for Investors – A call for strategic, long-term vision when entering Iraq’s market, where risks coexist with significant opportunities.
Dr. Ballack’s Message
Dr. Ballack emphasized that despite turbulence, Iraq remains a market of vast potential. By combining innovation, technology, and strong international linkages, entrepreneurs can turn challenges into growth opportunities that benefit not only businesses but society as a whole.
