The Kurdistan Region expects summer agricultural production to reach 1.2 million tonnes in 2026, according to the latest data from agriculture directorates in Erbil, Duhok, Sulaymaniyah and Halabja.
Farmers allocated more than 226,000 acres of land to summer crops. The growing season runs from May 10 to November 10. Qaraman Qadir, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, said strong rainfall increased fruit and vegetable production. Daily output now reaches about 1,200 tonnes.
Current production includes 225,000 tonnes in Erbil, 200,000 tonnes in Sulaymaniyah and Halabja, and 170,000 tonnes in Duhok. Final forecasts range from 350,000 to 450,000 tonnes for Erbil, 300,000 to 400,000 tonnes for Sulaymaniyah, and 250,000 to 350,000 tonnes for Duhok.
Erbil exported 116,868 tonnes of local produce to central and southern Iraqi provinces during the first six months of 2026. June recorded the highest monthly volume at 68,000 tonnes. Watermelon led exports with 34,000 tonnes, followed by potatoes, onions, cabbage and cucumbers.
Officials say Erbil’s agricultural output rose 25% between 2020 and 2025, while potato production increased 60%. They also described local produce as safer than imports because authorities closely monitor pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
Duhok plans to cultivate 112,833 acres and expects more than 583,000 tonnes of produce. Grapes, apples and pomegranates dominate its exports, with some apples reaching European markets.
Sulaymaniyah allocated 111,850 acres, mainly for tomatoes, watermelon, melons and cucumbers. Penjwen remains the largest production area.
Halabja farmers cultivated 2,033 acres. Watermelon covers most of that land, while local farms also produce melons, tomatoes and other crops for Sulaymaniyah and southern Iraq.
The ministry says the figures show the Region has achieved self-sufficiency in several summer crops and has become a major supplier to Iraqi markets. Officials expect stronger output to support farmers, stabilize prices and reduce reliance on imported food.
