Iran has reopened the export of tomatoes to the Kurdistan Region, leading to a sharp decline in local market prices after weeks of high costs and supply pressure.
Market prices for tomatoes in the Kurdistan Region have fallen to around 700 Iraqi dinars per kilogram. This drop comes after Iran lifted its previous export restrictions and resumed shipments starting Monday.
Earlier, prices had surged significantly due to several factors, including disruptions linked to regional tensions, reduced trade movement, and delays in the arrival of local agricultural production. At the peak of the shortage, tomato prices in wholesale markets ranged between 1,000 and 1,750 dinars per kilogram.
In recent days, however, prices have dropped rapidly, and traders expect further decreases as Iranian imports increase and supply stabilizes.
Ata Mohammad, spokesperson for the Sulaymaniyah wholesale market, confirmed that Iran has reopened exports of seasonal tomatoes. He said shipments from Iran resumed on Monday and will likely push prices down further in the coming days. He estimated that prices could stabilize between 250 and 400 dinars per kilogram if supply continues.
Current market rates vary across the Kurdistan Region. In Erbil, tomatoes sell for 500 to 600 dinars per kilogram. Additionally, in Sulaymaniyah and Halabja, prices range between 400 and 600 dinars. In Duhok, prices remain slightly lower, at 350 to 500 dinars per kilogram.
Officials estimate that the Kurdistan Region consumes around 400 tons of tomatoes daily, making stable imports essential for market balance. The Ministry of Agriculture previously restricted imports to support local farmers during peak production periods. However, authorities are expected to ease or lift restrictions again once domestic harvests increase and market prices stabilize.
Agricultural sources say the combination of local production recovery and resumed Iranian imports will likely keep prices stable in the coming weeks. Traders also expect improved supply chains to prevent sudden price spikes seen earlier in the season.
