Kurdish rice is reaching European markets as local farmers increase production across the Kurdistan Region.
Although local rice production still cannot meet the region’s full demand, farmers export small quantities every year. The Ministry of Agriculture expects rice production to exceed 20,000 tons this year.
Nawzad Sheikh Kamil, director general of commerce at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, said Kurdish rice exports help promote local products internationally.
He said traders exported nearly 10 tons of Kurdish rice to European markets last year. Several traders also plan to export a similar amount this year.
Qaraman Qadir, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, said rice production depends heavily on rainfall and water supplies.
The Kurdistan Region usually produces between 15,000 and 20,000 tons of rice annually. However, higher rainfall this year and the construction of new dams and water projects could push production above 20,000 tons.
Despite the expected increase, local production remains far below domestic demand.
According to Ministry of Agriculture figures, the Kurdistan Region needs more than 100,000 tons of rice each year.
Local farmers currently supply only a small portion of that demand. Therefore, the region imports rice from countries including India, Thailand, and the United States.
Akre district in Duhok province is widely known as the “capital of Kurdish rice.” The area serves as one of the region’s main rice-producing centers.
Akre rice includes several well-known varieties, including Shash Mahi, No Mahi, and Sadri.
Other important rice-producing areas include Sharbazher, Pishdar, Halabja, and Bazian. Farmers in these areas contribute significantly to local rice production.
The KRG has introduced measures to protect local farmers and encourage domestic production.
During the harvest season, the Ministry of Agriculture restricts foreign rice imports. This policy aims to give locally produced rice greater access to domestic markets.
The ministry also provides subsidized fertilizers and high-quality seeds to farmers.
These measures help reduce production costs and support farmers as they expand cultivation.
The growth in local rice production could eventually increase exports. However, the region still needs higher yields to reduce its reliance on imports.
For now, the arrival of Kurdish rice in European markets marks a growing opportunity for local farmers and the region’s agricultural sector.
