A Legacy of Vision, Growth, and Diversity
Over the course of seven decades, Cihan Group has undergone extraordinary expansion, evolving from a textile- focused enterprise into a dynamic conglomerate encompassing 15 diverse sectors. This remarkable journey highlights the company’s adaptability, innovative spirit, and visionary leadership.
In 1947, the late Haji Yahya Bajger, driven by an entrepreneurial vision, laid the groundwork for what would evolve into the Cihan Group, a diverse conglomerate in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Beginning in the textile industry, the Group reached a pivotal turning point in 1971 with its strategic expansion into the wholesale textile business. This move broadened its portfolio and established solid connections with neighboring countries and the Far East. The expansion set the stage for further diversification, first into the clothing industry and later into the production of plastic and paper bags, showcasing the company’s adaptability to market demands.
Over the past seven decades, the company has made significant strides in diversifying its business operations. It has branched into international trading, food distribution, automotive, heavy machinery, construction, energy, banking, insurance, education, and media. The late Haji Yahya Bajger’s determination, innovative spirit, and strategic foresight have driven the Cihan Group to expand into 15 diverse sectors, and today, it provides employment for over 2,500 people. The Group’s journey stands as a compelling testament to the power of entrepreneurial vision, unwavering dedication, and the courage to dream big in the KRI.
CELEBRATING 77 YEARS OF LEGACY
Cihan Group is celebrating its 77th anniversary as a leading corporate group in Iraq, shaped by the vision of its founder, the late Haji Yahya Bajger. His vision extended beyond merely starting businesses; it included contributing to the country’s economic and social development, instilling ethics and values, investing in education, and embracing innovation.
Haji Yahya Bajger
Cihan Group in this small shop in 1947.
was awarded a medal by the Emperor of Japan
on February 20, 2019.
CIHAN FMCG
Since its founding in 1992, Cihan FMCG has established itself as a leader in Iraq’s import and distribution sector, specializing in high-quality products. Initially focusing on tea, the company has diversified its offerings over the past three decades to include a wide range of essentials such as rice, dairy products, pulses, tomato paste, and edible oils.
In 2018, Cihan FMCG achieved a significant milestone by importing a record 15 million kg of tea from Sri Lanka. This strengthened its market presence with the renowned Akbar Brothers tea brand and secured a 30% market share in Iraq. Acknowledging its success, Akbar Brothers recognized Cihan FMCG as its largest buyer and exporter, celebrating 30 years of business partnership.
Cihan FMCG is renowned for its excellence in both the Food and Hygiene product divisions. As a top importer of tea and rice, the company also offers a diverse array of products, including tomato paste, sunflower oil, milk powder, pulses, vegetable ghee, flour, baby diapers, soaps, and detergents.
In 2018, Cihan FMCG achieved a significant milestone by importing a record 15 million kg of tea from Sri Lanka. This strengthened its market presence with the renowned Akbar Brothers tea brand and secured a 30% market share in Iraq.
Looking to the future, Cihan FMCG has expanded its distribution network to international markets, exporting its brands to consumers in the USA, UK, Australia, Germany, Türkiye, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and several other countries.
CIHAN MOTORS: Pioneering Excellence in Automotive Imports
Established in 1997, Cihan Motors symbolizes the expansive vision and commitment of the Cihan Group to excellence in the automobile sector. Over the years, this dynamic division has thrived, setting remarkable standards in automotive imports.
A pivotal moment occurred in 2004 when Cihan Motors became the first Iraqi private enterprise to directly import Toyota vehicles from Japan, partnering with the esteemed Tomen Corporation. This groundbreaking move laid a solid foundation for the company’s future endeavors. Since then, Cihan Motors has been at the forefront of revolutionizing Iraq’s automotive market. The company has impressively imported over 100,000 Toyota vehicles, making a significant contribution to the Iraqi automotive landscape.
Today, Cihan Motors boasts a robust network of seven Toyota facilities across Iraq, demonstrating the company’s relentless pursuit of growth and excellence. Among these, four facilities are distinguished as Toyota Authorized Dealerships. They are equipped with comprehensive 3S Facilities (Sales, Service, and Spare Parts), as conferred by Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan. This reflects the company’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in sales, customer service, and after-sales support.
Cihan Group has impressively imported over 100,000 Toyota vehicles since 2004, making a significant contribution to the Iraqi automotive landscape.
CIHAN MACHINERY: A Dynamic Force in Heavy Machinery and Automotive Sector
In 2005, Cihan Motors strategically expanded by inaugurating its Machinery Division, which quickly gained prominence and secured its status as the official dealer for several leading heavy machinery brands, including Hino, Hitachi, Airman, Sakai, Robin, and Fili Ferrari.
HINO
Launched in 2010, the HINO division of the Cihan Group rapidly ascended to a leading position in the automotive market. The signing of the HASS (Hino Authorized Service Station) Agreement in 2013 further cemented the division’s reputation in the industry. The division’s consistent performance and dedication earned it the prestigious title of Hino Authorized Dealer in 2016.
GEELY
In 2021, Bajger Company forged a strategic partnership with Geely Auto by signing a Distributor Agreement. This commitment bore fruit in September 2022 with the unveiling of a flagship showroom in Erbil. Building on this momentum, the company expanded its reach by opening a second branch in Slemani in September 2023. These initiatives have profoundly reinforced Cihan Group’s dominant position in the Iraqi automotive landscape.
On the Move: Hertz Rent-A-Car
In its continuous pursuit of diversification, Cihan Group achieved another milestone by establishing the Hertz Rent-A-Car business under the Cihan Automotive Division in 2017. Starting with a modest fleet of 35 vehicles, the division experienced phenomenal growth, expanding its fleet to 500 vehicles within just one year—the largest rental car fleet in Iraq. Currently operating through eight prime outlets, the division has ambitious plans to extend its presence to other cities in Iraq.
EDUCATIONAL ENDEAVORS
Firmly dedicated to nurturing the human capital of the KRI, Cihan Group has been equipping the youth with the necessary skills to meet the ever-changing challenges and opportunities in the job market. A prime example of this commitment is the establishment of Cihan University in Erbil in 2007. Further extending its impact, Cihan Group acquired the Lebanese French University in 2012, enhancing its role in empowering the youth in the KRI.
Cihan University
Since opening its doors in 2007 in Erbil with just three colleges and 450 students, Cihan University has undergone a remarkable transformation, significantly impacting the academic landscape of the KRI. Over the years, the university has grown exponentially and now operates three campuses in Erbil, Slemani, and Duhok. These comprise 30 departments and are supported by a dedicated team of 630 teaching staff. This expansion has enabled Cihan University to provide education to nearly 10,400 students, a testament to its widespread reach and growing reputation.
Looking ahead, Cihan University plans to inaugurate new campuses in the cities of Kirkuk and Baghdad. These campuses are part of the university’s ongoing commitment to elevating the standard of higher education across Iraq, demonstrating a vision that continues to shape the nation’s academic future.
Lebanese French University
Founded in 2007, the Lebanese French University (LFU) underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by the Cihan Group in 2012. This acquisition marked the beginning of a new era for LFU, characterized by enhanced capabilities. At its core, LFU embodies a unique blend of Lebanese and French academic traditions, offering a curriculum that resonates both locally and internationally. Today, LFU educates 2,807 students, supported by 126 dedicated staff members. The university’s diverse academic offerings span several departments, including the College of Law & International Relations, College of Administration & Economics, College of Education & International Languages, and the Department of Information Technology.
Cihan International Schools
Cihan International Schools are renowned for their educational excellence, holding full accreditation and a commitment to providing a student-centered educational experience that both challenges and supports students in realizing their utmost potential. The schools pride themselves on delivering superior teaching quality from the foundational stages right through to Grade 12.
Located in Erbil, Slemani, Duhok, and Kirkuk, the schools serve approximately 2,800 students, distinguishing themselves through a rigorous curriculum that includes the MM publications and the unique Cihan Curriculum program. What truly sets Cihan International Schools apart is the deep sense of community and connection that flourishes among students, teachers, and families. This creates an exceptionally inclusive and supportive atmosphere, enhancing the learning experience and fostering educational and personal growth for every student.
CIHAN BANK: A Beacon of Islamic Banking Excellence
Since its inception in 2008, Cihan Bank has established a distinguished presence in the Iraqi banking industry. Committed to offering a comprehensive range of Islamic banking products and services, the bank has not only grown in size but also in reputation over the years. Today, it operates a robust network of 11 branches, significantly expanding its reach across Iraq, and boasts an extensive network of over 200 ATMs throughout the country, serving more than 200,000 customers.
In 2017, Cihan Bank was listed as a fully-fledged Islamic bank on the regular market of the Iraq Stock Exchange (ISX), marking a milestone that underscores the bank’s commitment to transparency and adherence to the ISX’s strict regulatory standards. Further solidifying its leadership and success in Islamic banking, Cihan Bank was honored with the Gold Medal by the Tatweej-Islamic Institution, a testament to the bank’s excellence in the field of Islamic banking in the Arab world.
Cihan Bank offers a variety of products in corporate, retail, and digital banking. Its vision is to offer innovative Shari’a-compliant financial solutions that promote community sustainability and financial inclusion.
Today, Cihan Bank operates a robust network of 11 branches, significantly expanding its reach across Iraq, and boasts an extensive network of over 200 ATMs throughout the country, serving more than 200,000 customers.
CIHAN CONSTRUCTION
Since entering the construction sector in 1982, the Cihan Group has swiftly built a reputation for delivering top-quality projects. In the past two decades, Cihan Construction has successfully completed 43 impressive projects. Notable examples include Bajger City in Erbil, which boasts 280 villa units; Cihan City, featuring 16 towers and 1,450 luxurious apartments; the Toyota 3S Facility; and the multifaceted Cihan Le Gulan, home to the Ramada Residences and commercial spaces. It is worth noting that 80% of the company’s workforce consists of local professionals, further emphasizing their commitment to improving the human capital of the KRI.
In the past two decades, Cihan Construction has successfully completed 43 impressive projects.
CIHAN INSURANCE
Licensed by the Insurance Bureau, Cihan Insurance, a private shareholding company, was established in Iraq in 2010. The company is dedicated to delivering unique services by offering professional insurance policies tailored to the diverse needs of the Iraqi market. Its offerings include Property and Casualty Insurance, Motor Insurance, and Health Insurance.
To ensure compliance with Iraqi law and protect the interests of Iraqi insurance policyholders both domestically and internationally, Cihan Insurance maintains a reinsurance treaty with the Iraqi Public Reinsurance Company under the Ministry of Finance. The company extends its insurance services through its branches and offices located in Erbil, Baghdad, Basra, Mosul, Duhok, and Slemani, demonstrating its commitment to accessibility and customer service across Iraq.
CIHAN PETROLEUM
Since its inception in 2017, Cihan Petroleum has been steadfastly committed to providing the highest quality fuel products throughout the KRI. Starting with a single retail center in Erbil, the company has successfully expanded its operations. It now boasts a network of stations across the Erbil, Slemani, and Duhok Governorates. In addition, the Cihan Group is investing in solar technology, aligning with its goal to become a pioneering company in sustainable energy solutions within the KRI.
HAJI YAHYA CHARITY ESTABLISHMENT
Unwavering Commitment to Community and Social Development
Cihan Group’s prowess in business is paralleled by its strong commitment to social responsibility, as demonstrated by the range of initiatives it supports. The Haji Yahya Charity Establishment, founded in 1993 and managed by the Bajger Family, epitomizes this commitment as the Group’s philanthropic arm. The charity addresses various societal needs by focusing on youth development, education, environmental protection, and providing assistance to IDPs, refugees, and low-income families.
Furthering its investment in the community, the charity supports internship programs in collaboration with various international and local organizations. Additionally, it provides scholarships to over 1,000 students each year, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede access to education.
In response to environmental challenges, the Charity actively engages in tree planting and various environmental conservation initiatives.
Promising Future
For over seven decades, the Cihan Group has built a legacy as a beacon of entrepreneurial expertise and resilience in the KRI. As one of the most prominent business entities in the region, it boasts a diversified portfolio encompassing 15 distinct business divisions. Integrated into a comprehensive national network, this portfolio ensures the Group’s influential presence across Iraq.
