Agricultural exports from the Kurdistan Region continue to expand, with officials expecting potato exports from Erbil to reach their highest levels next month. Strong production, growing regional demand, and wider access to foreign markets have helped strengthen the region’s agricultural sector.
Hemin Said Murad, Director General of Agriculture in Erbil, said nearly 300 truckloads of agricultural products leave the Kurdistan Region every day for markets across central and southern Iraq. The steady flow of goods highlights the success of efforts to improve the marketing and distribution of local produce.
According to Murad, local farmers first supply domestic markets before exporting surplus production. Potatoes remain one of the region’s most successful agricultural products due to their high quality and large harvest volumes. Demand for Kurdistan-grown potatoes continues to increase both inside Iraq and abroad.
Exports have already reached several Gulf countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. The region has also expanded exports of other products. Kurdistan honey now reaches markets in both Europe and the Gulf, while locally produced tomato paste has gained access to European consumers.
The Kurdistan Region has become an important supplier of food products across Iraq. Between 250 and 300 trucks transport agricultural goods daily to the federal Iraqi provinces. This contribution supports food security and strengthens trade links between the region and the rest of the country.
Officials have also introduced measures to protect local farmers during harvest seasons. Authorities often increase tariffs on imported products or temporarily restrict imports to give priority to domestic production.
Murad explained that export opportunities depend on seasonal demand. Gulf markets open wider import windows during certain periods of the year. In the UAE, demand for imported agricultural products typically rises between July and September, creating favorable conditions for Kurdistan exports.
With the harvest season approaching its peak, Erbil’s potato exports are expected to rise significantly in the coming weeks. Officials believe continued access to regional and international markets will further strengthen the agricultural sector and create new opportunities for local producers.
