Officials in Duhok province are forecasting a grape harvest of 60,000 tons this year, supported by the establishment of new processing factories aimed at addressing surplus production. The development follows support from the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) ninth cabinet, reinforcing the province's position as the leading grape-producing area in Iraq.
Ahmed Jamil, Director General of Duhok Agriculture, told Kurdistan24 that the KRG's focus on the agricultural sector has been instrumental in strengthening local output. He stated, "Duhok province is famous for grape production, and according to statistics, it has approximately 39,000 donums of land planted with vineyards. This has enabled it to achieve the top rank in grape production across Iraq."
The province cultivates more than 105 grape varieties, including some considered rare at the global level. The diversity is regularly showcased at events such as the annual Duhok Grape and Honey Fair. Farmers like Abdulrahman Sleman Bageri, reported on in 2022, have grown over 50 grape varieties on their farms since the 1970s.
Jamil noted that the long-standing challenge for farmers has been market access. "Previously, one of the main problems for farmers was selling their produce. However, now, thanks to the government's steps and the involvement of investors, this problem has been solved," he said.
Factories for juice and other grape-based products are now operational, including one in Mangesh that will begin receiving grapes this year. Another larger project is under development in the Semel district, with a warehouse already allocated. These facilities are intended to create a sustainable outlet for production that exceeds local consumption.
The projected harvest represents an increase from 48,000 tons in 2024, attributed to favorable weather conditions. Production levels have varied in recent years, reaching more than 77,000 tons in 2021, according to figures from the Duhok Agricultural Directorate.
According to Jamil, the KRG has supported the sector by providing financial assistance, technical guidance, and new grape varieties suited to the region's climate.
The developments in Duhok are part of broader agricultural reforms pursued by the KRG under Prime Minister Masrour Barzani since 2019. The agriculture budget has increased from 1.5% to nearly 10% of total spending, with investments in infrastructure such as wholesale markets and grain silos.
Through the Kurdistan Agriculture Export Initiative (KAEI), the region began its first non-oil exports in 2022, initially shipping pomegranates from Halabja to Gulf and European markets. Since then, exports have expanded to include apples, honey, potatoes, and other crops, building international demand for Kurdish produce.
Source: Kurdistan 24