Abundant sumac harvest on mount Pires boosts farmers’ prospects
Despite the scorching summer temperatures, farmers are working diligently to harvest their sumac crop. This year’s production is notably abundant, prompting an increase in cultivation and export efforts.
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The sumac harvest on the heights of Mount Pires in Akre district is experiencing a bumper year, with farmers eager to capitalize on the plentiful crop and secure good prices in the market.
Despite the scorching summer temperatures, farmers are working diligently to harvest their sumac crop. This year’s production is notably abundant, prompting an increase in cultivation and export efforts.
A farmer from Akre shared with Kurdistan 24: “Thank God, this year’s crop is very abundant. The more export opportunities there are, the more farmers will grow sumac. Mount Pires sumac this year is of very high quality.”
Another local farmer noted: “The quality of this year’s sumac from Mount Pires is exceptional, thanks to the heavy rains the region received. Additionally, the lack of dust storms has prevented pest issues. Prices range from 2,000 to 5,000 dinars, compared to 8,000 dinars last year.”
Farmers attribute the increased price to the Kurdistan Regional Government’s successful efforts to export sumac through the private sector, which has helped raise its market value. This has encouraged more farmers to expand their cultivation areas.
Masoud, a trader in Dinarta district, remarked: “This year’s sumac crop is of high quality, and I am purchasing it at favorable prices from farmers.” He added, “Overall, this year’s sumac has been very good, with its cultivation increasing annually. If the government supports its export, prices could rise even further.”
According to the Akre Agriculture Department, there are currently 3.7 million sumac trees of four varieties planted over 9,000 dunams of land. The expected production for this year is around 6,000 tons.
