The Kurdistan Regional Government is working to turn locally produced olive oil into an internationally recognized brand through a new agricultural development project.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources says the first phase has already begun and produced encouraging results.
Qaraman Sian, spokesperson for the ministry, said the project is called “Kores” and is being implemented by the Italian Siham Bari Institute in coordination with the ministry.
Foreign and local experts have reviewed the project’s first year of work. Their assessment covered olive varieties, production methods, processing facilities and the overall quality of locally produced olive oil.
Sian said the main goal is to strengthen rural communities across the Kurdistan Region by developing the olive oil value chain. The project also aims to create a distinct Kurdish brand that can compete in international markets.
The initiative supports the KRG’s wider strategy to expand local agricultural production and increase exports.
Under the ninth cabinet, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani placed greater emphasis on helping farmers improve production and reach foreign markets. The government has also promoted agricultural exports in several sectors.
Olive oil production has entered a new stage with government support. Several processing factories now operate across the Kurdistan Region.
Together, these facilities produce around 800 tonnes of olive oil each year. Officials say the oil meets high quality standards.
Strong domestic demand currently absorbs most of the production, leaving only a small amount available for export.
The government now wants to increase production, improve branding and build stronger access to international markets.
Officials believe a recognized Kurdish olive oil brand could increase farmers’ incomes, support rural communities and strengthen the agricultural sector.
The project could also help Kurdish producers compete with established olive oil brands abroad while creating new opportunities for local processing, packaging and exports in coming years.
