Geopolitics Quarterly

Geopolitics Quarterly

The Disruptive Effects of ISIS on International Trade in Iraq and Syria: An Analysis of Economic and Political Consequences

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Raed Kareem Abdullah 1
Sity Daud 2
Abdul Muein Abadi 3
Nabeel Mahdi Althabhawi 4
Muna Mohammed Khadim 5
1 Thi-Qar Governorate, Iraq.
2 Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia
3 Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia.
4 Faculty of Law, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Malaysia.
5 Faculty of Law, Al-Mustaqbal University, Iraq.
10.22034/igq.2024.472179.1929
Abstract
The rise of ISIS has profoundly impacted the economies of Iraq and Syria. This research paper examines the severe repercussions on international trade within these nations. By analyzing the economic and political ramifications of ISIS’s presence, the study aims to reveal how ISIS disrupts the movement of goods and services across Iraq and Syria. A key focus is the disruption of supply chains. ISIS’s presence has caused significant interruptions in production and distribution networks, leading to delays, increased costs, and inefficiencies in trade operations. Additionally, the instability has deterred domestic and foreign investments, resulting in financial losses and economic decline. The paper also addresses the decline in foreign trade. Fear and uncertainty from ISIS’s activities have reduced trade volumes, affecting essential goods and services. Furthermore, ISIS’s control of oil-rich regions has reduced output and led to illegal trade practices, complicating the economic landscape. 
Keywords
Islamic State (ISIS)
International Trade
Iraq
Syria
Subjects
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Geopolitics Quarterly
Volume 21, Issue 2
Summer 2025
Pages 171-190

  • Receive Date 20 September 2024
  • Revise Date 28 October 2024
  • Accept Date 11 December 2024