A Novel Framework for the Iraqi Manufacturing Industry Towards the Adoption of Industry 4.0

This study investigates the readiness of manufacturing industries in the Iraqi sector to adopt and implement Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies. The research focuses on manufacturing industries, including automotive, electronics, textiles, food processing, etc. The study’s main objective is to investigate the relationship between adopting I4.0 technologies and performance benefits in these sectors. A structured survey was conducted across 240 manufacturing companies, including specific I4.0 technologies (IoT, Big Data Analytics, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, etc.), usage levels, operations, products/services, and sustainability. Data were collected through telephone interviews and personal contacts, where the respondents rated the benefits of I4.0 technology adoption and performance benefit dimensions on a five-point Likert scale. The study utilized Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 3.2.9 software for data analysis. Findings show a positive relationship between I4.0 technology adoption and industrial performance benefits, emphasizing productivity and production efficiency improvements more than sustainability improvements and resource benefits. This research contributes to the understanding of I4.0 readiness in emerging economies and provides insight for policymakers and industry leaders in Iraq’s manufacturing sector.