IFRS adoption in emerging markets: the case of Iraq

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to review a synthesis of theories and empirical studies dealing with the mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in emerging countries on the example of Iraq. The methodology of this paper is a literature review which mainly focuses on three main streams, including related factors that pressure or prevent such adoption over time, the role of comparability with the implementation of IFRS standards, and the economic consequences of IFRS adoption. Based on the theoretical data analysis and a prior review literature, an adoption paradox model was developed. The study found that mandatory IFRS adoption in Iraq is unlikely to improve financial information comparability. We also found that weak political system issues and complaints about the rules are more likely to reduce the faithful implementation process of IFRS. Further, financial information users, home country institutions and IFRS adoption experience affect the effectiveness of IFRS adoption. We contribute to the literature by showing important factors that can be either supportive or obstructive to IFRS adoption.

Keywords

• accounting; IFRS adoption
• emerging countries
• Iraq