An $80 million dairy project in Duhok plays a key role in the Kurdistan Regional Government’s plan. It aims to boost food self-sufficiency and cut reliance on imports. Moreover, the Kavin Farm project ranks among the largest dairy facilities in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. As a result, it signals a strong shift toward domestic production.
Kavin Farm covers 3,000 acres in Duhok Governorate. It houses more than 2,000 dairy cows. Each day, it produces about 130 tons of milk. In addition, the project operates as a fully integrated system. It combines breeding, milk collection, and on-site processing. Therefore, the farm converts raw milk into finished products without outside processors.
The production lines supply fresh milk, yogurt, drinking yogurt, and cheese. These include mozzarella and other varieties. Meanwhile, the products reach markets across the Kurdistan Region and federal Iraq. Project managers say the closed system ensures quality. As a result, they market the products as local and natural.
Raqib Abubakr, the project manager, explained the farm’s full production cycle. It also produces animal feed on site. Consequently, the farm reduces supply risks and long-term costs. According to Abubakr, input control supports quality and sustainability.
The $80 million dairy project also targets a clear supply gap. Firas Sadiq, Director of Animal Wealth, shared official figures. The region needs about 500,000 liters of milk each year. However, local production reaches only 300,000 liters. Therefore, a 200,000-liter gap remains and relies on imports. The government plans to close this gap within four years.
Kavin Farm supports a wider strategy under the Ninth Cabinet. The plan includes grain silos and cold storage projects. In addition, it expands greenhouse farming. At the same time, the government taxes imports to protect local producers.
Beyond food supply, the project boosts the local economy. It employs around 2,500 people. These jobs span farming, processing, and logistics. As a result, the project raises incomes and cuts unemployment in Duhok.
Now, daily production continues at scale. Consequently, Kavin Farm is reshaping the dairy sector. Overall, it moves the Kurdistan Region closer to lasting food security and economic strength.
