Grain production in Erbil has dropped sharply this year due to low rainfall. Local farmers are facing major losses, especially in non-irrigated, or demi, lands.
According to Hemn, Director General of Agriculture in Erbil, the lack of seasonal rain has left more than 640,000 acres of demi land unproductive. Meanwhile, only 318,000 acres of irrigated land have remained usable.
“We didn’t have any grain production in demi lands this year,” Hemn said. “When grain isn’t harvested, wheat straw also disappears.”
Wheat straw, the leftover stalk after harvesting wheat, is widely used as feed for cows and donkeys across the region. Without a wheat harvest, farmers have no straw to collect and store.
The shortage has caused prices to rise significantly. “Last year, two blankets of straw sold for 3,000 dinars,” Hemn explained. “This year, the same amount costs 6,000.”
Despite these challenges, Hemn noted one area of relief. Several garlic factories in the Kurdistan Region continue to operate. Thanks to customs exemptions and support from the Kurdistan Regional Government, these factories have kept prices stable and supply flowing.
“The government’s support has allowed these factories to stay active,” Hemn said. “That helps reduce the pressure on farmers and consumers alike.”
Grain production in Erbil is expected to recover if rainfall improves next year. Until then, the focus remains on supporting farmers, preserving resources, and protecting the local food chain.
This difficult season has made one thing clear: Grain production in Erbil is closely tied to water availability—and essential for both people and livestock across the region.