The Kurdistan Region is recording a strong summer harvest in 2026, with thousands of tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables reaching local markets every day, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources.
Qaraman Qadir, spokesperson for the ministry, said the summer harvest season runs from May 10 to November 10. During this period, locally grown produce supplies markets across the Region and gives farmers a major opportunity to sell their crops.
Qadir said the Kurdistan Regional Government coordinates each year with Iraq’s federal government on the agricultural calendar. The agreement helps protect local products, regulate imports and support farmers during harvest periods.
He added that authorities may allow imports if prices rise sharply or local supplies fall below demand.
Ministry figures show that daily tomato production ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 tonnes, mainly from Penjwen and other mountainous areas.
Watermelon output reaches about 2,000 to 3,500 tonnes per day, with major production coming from Garmiyan, Erbil and the Sharazur Plain. Cantaloupe production ranges from 800 to 1,500 tonnes daily.
Farmers also produce between 600 and 1,000 tonnes of cucumbers each day from greenhouses and open fields. Eggplant output ranges from 400 to 800 tonnes.
Hot and sweet peppers contribute 300 to 600 tonnes daily, while courgettes produce between 250 and 500 tonnes. Okra output reaches 200 to 400 tonnes, and Armenian cucumbers add another 150 to 300 tonnes per day.
The ministry said the strong harvest reflects continued growth in domestic agriculture. Officials believe higher production can strengthen food security, reduce dependence on imports and create more stable markets for local farmers.
Officials also expect the seasonal surplus to expand sales to other Iraqi provinces and improve incomes for farming communities.
The KRG says it will continue supporting producers through market regulation, agricultural planning and coordination with Baghdad.
