Iraqi Ministry of Trade delegation discusses wheat procurement from Kurdistan Region

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) - A delegation from the Iraqi Ministry of Trade has arrived in Erbil to engage in discussions regarding the procurement of wheat from farmers in the Kurdistan Region. The delegation is set to meet with representatives from the KRG’s Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources to explore avenues for collaboration.

Karim Sulaiman, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources of the KRG, confirmed the delegation's visit, highlighting its significance in addressing the wheat procurement strategy for the current year.

The primary objective of the meeting is to negotiate the purchase of wheat harvested by farmers in the provinces of Erbil, Duhok, and Sulaimani.

"The Iraqi Ministry of Trade traditionally procures wheat from farmers in central and southern Iraq, but not from the Kurdistan Region. We are striving to maximize the procurement of wheat from our farmers," stated Sulaiman.

Data indicates that approximately 2.9 million donums of land in the Kurdistan Region have been allocated for wheat cultivation this year, with an expected yield of 2.5 million tons. The Deputy Minister underscored the importance of securing fair prices for wheat, citing a rate of 850,000 dinars per ton.

The Iraqi Ministry of Trade has a longstanding practice of purchasing wheat from KRG farmers on an annual basis. In the previous year (2023), approximately 500,000 tons of wheat were procured from farmers across Erbil, Duhok, and Sulaimani provinces at the aforementioned price.

While discussions progress between the Iraqi Ministry of Trade and KRG officials, efforts are underway to streamline the procurement process and ensure equitable compensation for Kurdish farmers. The outcome of these deliberations will play a pivotal role in supporting agricultural livelihoods and bolstering food security in the Kurdistan Region.

The procurement of wheat from farmers in the Kurdistan Region holds significant implications for agricultural sustainability and economic development. With a substantial portion of arable land dedicated to wheat cultivation, Kurdish farmers play a crucial role in meeting domestic food demands and contributing to regional food security.

The annual procurement process, facilitated by the Iraqi Ministry of Trade, serves as a vital lifeline for Kurdish farmers, providing them with a reliable market for their produce. However, efforts to enhance transparency and equity in pricing remain ongoing, with stakeholders striving to ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their labor and investment.