Akre’s first class rice is now reaching the United States, marking a major milestone for Iraq’s Kurdistan Region. This achievement highlights the success of the KRG’s push to promote local products globally.
This year, Akre’s rice harvest shows exceptional quality. Farmers report larger yields and rising demand both domestically and abroad. Many call this season the best in recent years. The crop’s superior taste and aroma are drawing attention from regional and international buyers. Local rice whitening factories confirm that this year’s first class rice is tastier and of higher quality than previous harvests.
Moreover, market prices reflect this premium. Farmers say prices for six-month rice have risen from 47-48 thousand dinars to 50-55 thousand dinars per unit. Other varieties now sell for 2,500 to 6,000 dinars per kilogram. This demonstrates the strong market value of Akre’s first class rice.
Therefore, the expansion into the American market represents a strategic breakthrough. Historically, Akre rice was popular across Iraq, especially in Erbil, Sulaimani, and Duhok. Now, shipments are crossing oceans. Merchants confirm export requests from the United States, signaling growing global demand. This mirrors trends seen in the UK, where Kurdish products like sumac, honey, and rice are increasingly sought after.
Furthermore, the success of Akre rice is part of a larger KRG vision. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has championed the transformation of the Kurdistan Region into a “food basket” capable of feeding itself and exporting high-quality products worldwide. This strategy aims to diversify revenues, reduce dependence on hydrocarbons, and strengthen long-term food security.
Supporting this vision, the KRG has invested in modern irrigation systems, private processing factories, roads, and export infrastructure. Local agricultural festivals also connect producers directly to buyers. The first shipments of pomegranates, figs, honey, and apples to Europe and the Gulf paved the way for rice exports to the US.
Akre’s journey from local staple to international product showcases Iraq’s agricultural renaissance. With first class rice now on American tables, the region proves it can compete globally while celebrating local quality and tradition.
