Network Analysis of Iraq’s Construction Ecosystem: Identifying Pivotal Construction Enabling Sectors for Sustainable Economic Development (2004–2023)
Author's Name:
Huda Zwair Miklif
Faculty of Administration and Economics, University of Kerbala - Kerbala, Iraq
Eman Abdalkadhem Jabbar Al-kuraity
Faculty of Administration and Economics, University of Kerbala - Kerbala, Iraq.
Ibtihal Nahi Shaker
Faculty of Administration and Economics, University of Kerbala - Kerbala, Iraq
Network analysis in recent years has emerged as modern technique of analysis used to examine the interaction among complex supply networks and structural configuration of productive systems. The main aim of the present research is to examine the structural interdependencies within the ecosystem of Iraq in terms of supply chain by using approach of network analysis with purpose to identify the intensity and nature of linkages among oil-based financing, industrial production, transportation systems and electricity provision. Present study uses network analysis of construction enabling sector of Iraq including services, transportation, electricity, agriculture, manufacturing and oil for the period 2004 to 2023. This research used data of input and output from development indicators from world bank and Iraqi central Bureau of statistics. Present study models these sectors in the form of integrated network of infrastructure supply chain. The findings reveal a high degree of structural centralization around oil-based financing, which acts as the dominant hub influencing the rest of the construction ecosystem. In contrast, manufacturing, agriculture, electricity, and transportation sectors have lower interconnections, which have resulted in moderate network density. This suggests that the infrastructure development in Iraq is financially centralized but operationally decentralized. Therefore, the construction supply chain is vulnerable to oil price volatility. Weak intersectoral density constrains the diffusion of development gains across sectors and limits progress toward sustainable infrastructure expansion. Based on findings, this research proposed institutionalizing of network-based tools, promotion of renewable energy investment, and upgradation of electricity and transportation infrastructure to enhance resilience of construction supply chain.