The current conflict in Iraq has affected all areas of public administration. We are working with the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Trade in Iraq to analyse the customs and trade regime. Our work involves an analysis of the current capacity within the Customs service to carry out the functions expected of it, and of the Ministry of Trade to develop trade policies and build towards World Trade Organisation Accession. This will provide a starting point for stimulating trade and investment with Iraq and help promote economic development, as well as laying the foundation for a future capacity building programme.