Harir Tomato Paste Factory: Local Production, Global Quality, and Expanding Reach to U.S. Markets
Kurdistan's Harir tomato paste factory processes 100 tons daily, exports to US & EU. Covers 50% local demand, supports farmers & drivers. Pure product gains global recognition as agro-industry model.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In the heart of the Kurdistan Region’s agricultural belt, the tomato paste factory in Harir continues to receive and process vast quantities of locally grown tomatoes, converting approximately 100 tons of fresh produce daily into 25 tons of pure, unadulterated tomato paste. The facility has become a vital pillar of the local economy while gaining increasing traction in international markets—particularly in the United States.
From Kurdistan’s fields to global shelves
Shwan Hamid, the factory’s director, told Kurdistan24 that the facility currently operates at a production capacity of 25 tons of tomato paste per day, working an eight-hour shift schedule.
“We are unable to meet full market demand,” Hamid explained, “but we can cover about 50% of local needs. If the tomato yield in the region increases, we are prepared to expand production lines.”
Hamid further noted that every seven kilograms of tomatoes are required to produce just one kilogram of paste, underscoring the substantial volume of raw materials supplied by farmers across the region.
A boost for farmers and transporters
The factory serves as a strategic link in Kurdistan’s agricultural value chain—facilitating direct marketing of produce for local farmers while creating income opportunities for others, such as truck drivers engaged in the logistics of crop transport.
Renass Sherzad, a driver delivering produce to the plant, shared with Kurdistan24:
“This is my third delivery from the capital to this factory. Today, we brought in 75 tons of tomatoes, all harvested by farmers in Kurdistan.”
U.S. leads the demand among six export markets
According to the factory’s management, Harir’s tomato paste has now reached six international destinations: Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, and most notably, the United States.
Factory officials highlighted that demand from the U.S. market remains the highest, signaling global recognition of the product’s superior quality and purity.
A model for agro-industrial investment
The Harir factory stands as a successful example of investment in local food processing industries. Its ability to deliver high-quality output without chemical additives has positioned it as both a regional staple and a competitive global product.
As the Kurdistan Region continues to advance its agricultural sector, the Harir model demonstrates how effective planning and adherence to international standards can transform local production into a globally trusted brand.
Kurdistan24 corresponded in Harir contributed to this report
