Duhok Markets See Strong Demand for Locally Grown Fruits and Vegetables

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Fruit and vegetable markets in Duhok are witnessing a marked surge in demand for locally produced goods, with customers increasingly opting for fresh products sourced from within the Kurdistan Region. Vendors and shoppers alike attribute this growing preference to superior taste, high quality, and the fact that these goods reach the markets fresh.

Jihad Ziwki, who has worked in the market for more than two decades, underscored the importance of local products. “People prefer locally grown produce because of its delicious taste, pleasant aroma, and rich flavor,” he told Kurdistan24, noting that such products remain available throughout the summer season.

Another vendor, Newar Nerwi, affirmed to Kurdistan24, that shoppers can find all types of fruit and vegetables in the market, including a wide variety of seasonal fruits such as figs and grapes, which have been especially popular among buyers.

According to the sellers, although imported products are available, they are sold in much smaller quantities. Shoppers say that reasonable prices and the high quality of local goods make them more attractive, encouraging greater demand for homegrown produce.

The Duhok General Directorate of Agriculture publishes daily price lists for all types of fruit and local products. These are distributed to vendors to ensure uniform pricing across different market locations.

The Kurdistan Regional Government continues to make substantial efforts to support local agriculture and increase domestic production. These measures form part of a broader strategy to ensure food security, reduce dependence on imports, and promote local farmers by improving the marketing of their products.