The KRG livestock industry has experienced notable growth in recent years, despite facing severe drought conditions that have reduced animal numbers. According to Firas Sadiq, Director of Livestock at the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, the Kurdistan Region currently has an estimated 4.5 million small animals, including sheep and goats, and around 250,000 large animals such as cattle.
Sadiq stated that drought has had a measurable impact, with livestock numbers decreasing by approximately 20% to 25% across the region. In previous years, other factors such as low meat prices and alternative employment opportunities also contributed to a decline in livestock farming. However, the recent global rise in meat prices and limited job opportunities have encouraged many residents to return to livestock production.
The Ministry reports a significant expansion in livestock-related projects, particularly in traditional rural areas. In 2019, there were only 65 lake fattening projects with a combined capacity of 20,000 head. By 2025, this number had grown to 105 projects, collectively accommodating 98,000 head — representing a 350% increase in production capacity.
Major investment projects have also contributed to the sector’s growth. The Zoom project in Barzan, which sources milk from local farmers, has strengthened dairy production in the region. Other large-scale dairy initiatives include the Revin Farm project in Barzan, the Pearl project in Kalar, and the Cavin project in Duhok.
While drought conditions continue to pose challenges, Sadiq emphasized that the KRG livestock industry has benefited from the government’s agricultural development strategy. Increased attention to livestock farming, coupled with support for new projects, has led to sustained growth and renewed interest in the sector across the Kurdistan Region.
