Iraqi Kurdistan sees growth in e-commerce and remote jobs

SULAIMANI,— The online market in Iraqi Kurdistan has been growing rapidly, giving residents new ways to buy and sell goods from home, Awene newspaper reported.

Economists note that remote work is now considered essential, as physical presence in stores or offices is no longer required.

Tara Mohammed, a resident who has regularly shopped online for the past six months, told Awene she primarily buys makeup, cosmetics, and household items from sites like Amazon.

She also follows TikTok live streams where products are displayed. “When I see something I like, I request it,” she said.

Tara explained that online shopping has saved her trips to physical stores. “Over the past year and a half, I haven’t gone out to buy cosmetics or makeup,” she said.

She added that the quality, price, and delivery services of online retailers like Amazon make shopping convenient. “Some women may feel shy buying certain items in stores, but online shopping allows them to order anything comfortably,” she said.

Remote work is also helping residents earn additional income. Shadan, 28, started selling makeup online after realizing her husband’s income was insufficient for daily expenses.

She buys women’s products in bulk from wholesale markets, packages them attractively, and sells them online. “It provides steady monthly income without requiring heavy labor,”

she said. Shadan noted that many women prefer to purchase cosmetics and accessories online, making her business viable.

Smartphone car — Photo: Creative Commons/Omar Ramadan/pexels

Hawkar Mohammed, 34, shared his experience selling a car online. He initially tried dealerships but found the offers unsatisfactory.

“A friend suggested online platforms. I listed the car, and within two days, I sold it for more than dealerships offered,” he said.

The rise of e-commerce has affected traditional stores as well. Baryar Aziz, who has operated a cosmetics shop in Sulaimani for eight years, said online sales have reduced foot traffic.

“Online prices are lower, and sellers do not pay taxes or rent. Many display products from home,” he said. Aziz added that monthly income now fluctuates.

Traders importing goods from China and Southeast Asia also benefit from online business. Jalal Abdula, who manages distribution, said the online market has created opportunities for those without capital or experience.

“We distribute about 100 containers each month, selling goods by kilogram from 4,000 to 20,000 dinars depending on quality. For example, lion plush toys are sent to Erbil,” he explained.

Abdula added that while many online products are similar to local market items, quality and pricing differ. He said online business entered Kurdistan about two years ago and has grown rapidly, forming a strong network among traders and cities.

Digital marketing and remote work play a crucial role in this growth. Shwan Bakr, a master’s degree holder working in the online market, said companies now understand the advantages of remote work.

“Physical presence is not required. Employees can work from home or in hybrid setups,” he said. Customer service, in particular, has become a key remote job, with companies providing computers and software to support online operations.

Economists also highlight the technical requirements for remote work, including good internet, phones, and modern tools.

“Work has fundamentally changed. Production and coordination can happen anywhere, reducing environmental impact compared to on-site work,” one economist said.

Online shopping gives consumers a wider range of choices than physical stores. “While a shop may display two or three items, online platforms offer hundreds of options.

Sellers can provide the best products at competitive prices, ensuring customer satisfaction,” the economist added.

(With files from Awene)