AL-ARBAH: Journal of Islamic Finance and Banking
Vol. 8 No. 2 (2026)

Fiscal Policy and Economic Growth in Iraq: An ARDL Analysis of an Oil-Dependent Economy (2004 2024)

Thaer Mohammed Nsaif (University of Baghdad)
Akram Salih Yousif (Nawroz University)
Mamon Adam Maarof (Zakho University)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 May 2026

Abstract

Purpose - This study explores how fiscal policy influences economic growth in Iraq during the period 2004–2024, with a particular focus on the challenges faced by oil-dependent economies. Method - To achieve this objective, the study applies the ARDL model to examine both short-term adjustments and long-term relationships using annual time-series data. The analysis includes key macroeconomic variables such as GDP, government expenditure, oil revenues, tax revenues, money supply, and exchange rate. The Phillips–Perron test is used to ensure data stationarity. Result - The results indicate that economic growth in Iraq is closely tied to fluctuations in oil revenues, which largely drive fiscal activity. Government spending follows oil income patterns but shows limited independent impact in the long run. In contrast, non-oil fiscal tools, particularly taxation, play a relatively weak role, reflecting the narrow fiscal base of the economy. Implication - These findings suggest that improving fiscal policy effectiveness requires reducing reliance on oil revenues, strengthening the tax system, and enhancing the efficiency of public spending. Originality - This study presents a comprehensive assessment by combining numerous financial variables within a unified economic model, giving a clearer understanding of how fiscal policy works in a resource-based economy like Iraq. Keywords: Fiscal policy, Economic growth, Oil-dependent economy, ARDL, Iraq

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Journal Info

Abbrev

arbah

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

AL-ARBAH: Journal of Islamic Finance and Banking is a peer-reviewed journal, published biannually by Department of Sharia Banking, Faculty of Islamics Economics and Business, Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Walisongo Semarang Indonesia. This journal is peer-reviewed journal by English language ...