Meat prices have risen across most cities in the Kurdistan Region compared with the beginning of 2026, driven by tighter livestock supplies and higher import and production costs.
At the start of February, lamb and other small-livestock meat in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah sold for about 22,000 to 24,000 Iraqi dinars per kilogram. Beef ranged from 19,000 to 21,000 dinars. Prices have since increased by roughly 2,000 to 4,000 dinars per kilogram.
Sulaymaniyah now records some of the highest prices. Lamb sells for 25,000 to 28,000 dinars per kilogram, while some well-known shops charge up to 30,000. Beef generally costs 23,000 to 24,000 dinars.
In Erbil, lamb has reached around 27,000 dinars per kilogram, while beef sells for about 23,000 dinars.
Traders say livestock shortages have pushed prices higher. Imports from Syria have stopped, while bringing animals from Iran has become more expensive because much of the trade takes place informally. Rising feed and livestock-rearing costs have added further pressure.
Local production continues, but the Kurdistan Region also imports large numbers of animals from Armenia and Georgia.
Prices remain lower in Duhok, Halabja and Kirkuk. In Duhok, lamb sells for about 24,000 dinars per kilogram. Boneless beef costs around 20,000 dinars, while beef with bone can fall to 16,000.
Halabja records the lowest prices. Lamb sells for about 22,000 dinars per kilogram, while beef costs around 19,000. Traders link the lower prices to cheaper shop rents and weaker customer demand.
In Kirkuk, lamb ranges from 24,000 to 26,000 dinars per kilogram. Beef generally sells for between 20,000 and 24,000 dinars.
Traders expect prices to remain sensitive to livestock availability, import costs, feed prices and market demand. Any further restrictions on livestock imports or increases in production expenses could place additional pressure on consumers and meat sellers across regional markets soon.
