CLDP, in cooperation with the Department's Global Franchise Team (ITA and USEAC) and the International Franchise Association (IFA), participated in the International Franchise Association's Annual Convention on February 24 - 27, 2019 to promote US Franchise expansion into Iraq.  Since 2014, CLDP, alongside ITA, USEAC and IFA, have been working the with US Mission to Iraq to develop a cadre of qualified prospective franchisees, improve the business legal environment, and attract US franchisor interest in Iraq's ripe market.  Franchising provides a proven global model for Iraq to create new jobs, increase investment, and diversify its oil dependent economy.  To date, over 10 mega shopping malls have been built, and a multiple of known brands have begun expansion, including, Hardee's, Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Tootie Frutti. CLDP Attorney-Adviser Mais Abousy participated as a speaker at the 2019 International Franchise Association Convention, and met with U.S. franchise companies to provide insight to the commercial and legal franchise environment in Iraq's Southern Governorates.