Erbil agricultural sector achieves record domestic production, distribution to Iraqi markets

As stated by Hoshyar Jalil, head of Erbil's Agricultural Monitoring Department, speaking to Kurdistan24 on Tuesday, “Over the past two years, the department has provided 84,000 support packages to farmers.”

Erbil wholesale market. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Erbil wholesale market. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

Dec. 31, 2024

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a noteworthy growth for the Kurdistan Region's agricultural sector, the Erbil Agricultural Monitoring Department has issued reports of notable success in supporting local farmers and distributing domestic produce throughout Iraq.

This achievement signifies a vital step in the region's economic diversification efforts and agricultural development strategy.

As stated by Hoshyar Jalil, head of Erbil's Agricultural Monitoring Department, speaking to Kurdistan24 on Tuesday, “Over the past two years, the department has provided 84,000 support packages to farmers.”

This systematic support has generated remarkable results, with 750,000 tons of local produce being distributed to Iraqi provinces in 2024 alone.

The success of this agricultural initiative is evident in the various range of products being distributed through the Erbil wholesale market, which operates 24 hours a day.

The market handles a complete variety of produce including tomatoes, potatoes, onions, cucumbers, eggplants, zucchini, peppers, watermelons, melons, beets, cauliflower, turnips, cabbage, lettuce, and most recently, pomegranates.

This agricultural achievement aligns flawlessly with the Kurdistan Regional Government's Ninth Cabinet's economic diversification strategy, led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.

Since taking office, the cabinet has prioritized diversifying revenue sources, with a specific focus on agricultural development and finding external markets for the Kurdistan Region's agricultural products.

The strategy has already proven to be a success, with the export of various products including pomegranates, honey, potatoes, and apples to international markets standing as evidence to the government’s efforts.

The direct support to farmers has proven to be a crucial factor in enhancing domestic production, with services continuing even during holidays to maintain reliable output and distribution.

This extensive approach to agricultural development proves the government's commitment to lowering dependence on oil revenues while reinforcing the region's agricultural sector.