Kurdistan Region Expands Olive Industry with Specialized Factories, Unique Varieties

Helkewt Abdulrahman, General Director of Horticulture, Forestry, and Pastures, revealed that the Kurdistan Region now has 1.5 million olive trees, with 1,800 tons of olives produced in 2023.

Photo design by Kurdistan24.
Photo design by Kurdistan24.

Jan. 20, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – One of the priorities of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) ninth cabinet was agriculture, leading to a considerable expansion in olive production and the establishment of specialized olive oil factories.

Experts highlight the unique qualities of the region’s olives and the potential for growth in the industry.

Olive Production on the Rise

Helkewt Abdulrahman, General Director of Horticulture, Forestry, and Pastures, revealed that the Kurdistan Region now has 1.5 million olive trees, with 1,800 tons of olives produced in 2023.

Speaking to Kurdistan24, Abdulrahman highlighted the government’s commitment to the agricultural sector, highlighting the establishment of seven specialized olive oil production factories employing 1,350 farmers.

Unique Characteristics of Kurdish Olives

Professor Shler Shekhani, a forestry and gardening specialist, underlined the exceptional attributes of Kurdish olives. “The Kurdistan Region’s soil is very apt for olive cultivation, and its trees are short, allowing for dense planting and quick fruit production,” Shekhani explained.

The region produces outstanding olive varieties, including Sourani, Souri, and Arbequina, which are notable by their high oil content and exceptional quality.

These varieties have made Kurdish olive oil increasingly sought after, though current production levels fall short of domestic demand.

Olive Orchards Across the Region

According to Shekhani, the Kurdistan Region boasts more than 1,500 olive orchards, distributed as follows:

  • 350 in Erbil governorate
  • 300 in Sulaymaniyah governorate
  • The rest spread across Duhok, Akre, Sheikhan, Halabja, Rania, and Germian.

The expert emphasized the necessity for further investment in olive cultivation to increase production, noting that olives in the Kurdistan Region begin bearing fruit after five years.

Olive Oil Industry Development

The growth of specialized olive oil production factories signifies a key development in the sector.

These facilities have not only enhanced employment but also improved the processing and distribution of high-quality olive oil.

With additional planting initiatives, the Kurdistan Region could meaningfully increase production and reduce dependence on imported olive oil.

Health Benefits, Economic Potential, and Future Prospects

Beyond its economic value, olive oil is celebrated for its health benefits, which include cardiovascular health and anti-inflammatory properties.

As demand for olive oil grows globally, the Kurdistan Region’s fertile soil and favorable climate position it as a potential leader in olive production in the Middle East.

Experts and government officials agree that sustained investment in olive farming and infrastructure could transform the sector into a major contributor to the regional economy.

By addressing domestic demand and exploring export opportunities, the Kurdistan Region’s olive industry could become a symbol of agricultural success.

The Kurdistan Regional Government’s focus on agriculture not only fosters economic diversification but also reinforces the region’s commitment to sustainable development.