Baghdad – Iraq has officially launched a new national company for mobile phone services in partnership with Britain’s Vodafone, marking a strategic step toward introducing 5G connectivity across the country.
Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Sudani signed the directive on Sunday, following cabinet approval of the project earlier this year. The company will be jointly owned by the Ministry of Communications, the Public Pensions Fund, and the state-owned Trade Bank of Iraq.
Al-Sudani underscored the urgency of the project, saying:
“There is a need to speed up procedures for the operation of the new company as it will provide 5G services to citizens. This company represents a qualitative step in enhancing telecommunications services… the company’s shares will also be available to citizens.”
Communications Minister Hiyam Al-Yasiri confirmed that Vodafone International had been selected to operate the national license with 5G technology, a project that will be rolled out in 2025 as part of the government’s ministerial programme.
The initiative aims to strengthen Iraq’s telecom sector, provide advanced digital services, and create a competitive landscape by introducing a government-backed operator alongside private players.
The launch also comes amid broader efforts to improve Iraq’s digital infrastructure. In May, Prime Minister Al-Sudani met with representatives from Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, to discuss potential services that could further expand internet access and support Iraq’s digital transformation agenda.
With around 47 million consumers, Iraq represents one of the region’s largest markets, and the introduction of 5G through a national operator is expected to accelerate economic growth, enhance connectivity, and open new opportunities in education, healthcare, and e-commerce.
