Rice production in the Akre district will likely increase significantly this year because rainfall improved and farmers expanded cultivated land, according to local agricultural officials.
Fazil Mustafa, Director of Agriculture in Akre, said that farmers expanded rice fields compared to previous years. He said this expansion shows stronger agricultural activity across the district.
Official data shows farmers planted about 12,500 dunams of rice last year. This year, cultivation rose to around 14,500 dunams in Akre alone, which sets a new record for the district. Authorities say this increase reflects stronger confidence among farmers.
Mustafa said good weather conditions encouraged this growth. He pointed to higher rainfall this season, which improved water availability for irrigation. He added that farmers responded quickly by increasing planted areas and preparing for a better harvest.
Akre continues to produce well-known local rice varieties that remain popular in markets. These include “Shash Mangi,” “Se Mangi,” “Penj Mangi,” “Sadri Bondar,” and “Tahalf.” Farmers say demand for these varieties stays strong inside the region and beyond.
However, officials noted that several factors still affect farming schedules. This year, Ramadan delayed some field preparation and planting work. In earlier years, drought conditions reduced planting activity and disrupted harvest cycles across the district.
Farmers have now resumed preparations for the new season. Many of them expect higher yields if weather conditions remain stable throughout the growing period.
The Kurdistan Regional Government continues to support farmers through measures that help them sell agricultural products more easily. Authorities aim to strengthen local production and improve access to wider markets.
As a result, Akre rice now reaches more buyers outside the region. Traders export it to other parts of Iraq and also to markets in Europe and the United States.
Overall, the expected increase in rice production highlights improving agricultural conditions in Akre. Farmers benefit from better rainfall, expanded farmland, and stronger market access after several difficult years caused by climate challenges.
