On 2021 the Ministry of Planning’s Central Statistical Organization (CSO) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and with funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has conducted a study on Micro, Small, and Medium-Enterprises (MSMEs) in Iraq. The Survey covered the three governorates of Baghdad, Basra, and Nineveh. The study provides an evidence base to inform policies and strategies aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods, including through MSMEs’ development. It is designed to build a comprehensive analysis on the MSMEs structures, trends, business dynamics, challenges and opportunities through up-to-date, reliable, relevant market information and analysis.

On 2023 UNDP based on the data obtained in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning, UNDP formulated an action plan and guidelines for the relevant authorities to help them formulate policies and practical plans to support MSMEs and entrepreneurs and enhance their participation in the national economy.

This Focus group study contributed to the continuation of the mentioned survey, by conducting a qualitative study represented by Focus Groups in the Governorates of Kirkuk in the north, Babil in the center and Dhi Qar in the south to identify factors that will help align and prioritize the recommendations resulting from the MSME survey based on the critical needs of the remaining governorates.