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Agri-Business Alliances
Empowering Farmers, Strengthening Markets

Strengthening the Agriculture and Agri-food Value Chain and Improving trade policy in Iraq“ (SAAVI) has established 15 dynamic agri-business alliances in Ninewa and Basrah, creating an unprecedented network that connects farmers with leading Iraqi buyers. These alliances provide farmers with essential support to enhance their production capabilities, modernize their business models, and capitalize on new market opportunities. Through tailored guidance, farmers develop local business plans and forge long-term, meaningful partnerships with buyers across the country.

The introduction of a “buyer-led” approach transformed the alliances way of working. By improving every stage of production—from high-quality seeds to efficient logistics, sorting, cleaning, storage, and transportation—farmers aligned their produce with market demands. Leading retailers visited local villages, witnessing firsthand the farmers’ collective efforts. Impressed by their commitment, these buyers pledged to pay premium prices for high-quality products.

ITC through SAAVI has worked in partnership with NRC, public and private sector stakeholders, such as the Directorates of Agriculture, and development partners.

The impact has been remarkable. Farmers expanded cultivation areas and secured deals with major retailers such as Carrefour, Holland Bazar, and local shop collectives, earning up to 90% higher prices than standard market rates. Today, SAAVI Alliances proudly market their products under the “By Iraqi Hands” label, promoting locally produced, high-quality goods.

SAAVI’s agri-business alliances stand as a powerful testament to the potential of agriculture as a commercial, inclusive, and sustainable industry—driving prosperity for farmers while strengthening Iraq’s food markets.

SAAVI project is funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre, aims to contribute to inclusive economic growth and job creation, particularly for youth, by improving Iraq’s agriculture competitiveness and supporting trade development.

Impacts

Over 2000 farmers connected with a large network of reliable buyers through 15 agribusiness alliances
Farmers benefit with prices +90% higher than standard rates, ensuring a win-win situation.
Frequent transactions supporting job creation (71 transactions, resulting in the sale of over 252 tons of fresh produce).
Buyers, including supermarkets, intermediaries, and processing factories like PepsiCo, Carrefour, BEPP, Holland Bazar, FFG, Leezoo, etc., demand hundreds of tons annually, driving increased production and quality.
Some buyers, such as Lays factory (PepsiCo), have shown keen interest in establishing long-term partnerships with the alliances, with four transactions already completed.