A new agricultural partnership between the Netherlands and the Kurdistan Region is introducing advanced Dutch glasshouse technology to Erbil. The initiative aims to modernize greenhouse farming, increase year-round vegetable and flower production, and strengthen agricultural self-sufficiency. At the same time, investors want to position Kurdistan products for future export markets.
The Netherlands is widely recognized as a global leader in flower production and agricultural innovation. It exports millions of flowers every day through advanced electronic trading systems. Moreover, it applies strict quality control standards. Over the years, Dutch firms have expanded their expertise beyond Europe. They now provide greenhouse technology and consultancy services in many regions, including the Middle East.
In Erbil, local investor Sina Bedredin leads one of the main companies involved in the initiative. He explained that his company began the transition in 2021. First, they moved away from traditional plastic greenhouses. Then, they started building modern glasshouses based on Dutch specifications.
Currently, the company produces tomatoes, cucumbers, flowers, and seedlings. However, Bedredin stressed that the vision goes beyond the local market. The long-term goal is to reach export markets and showcase Kurdistan’s agricultural products internationally.
Adapting European greenhouse technology to Kurdistan’s climate requires careful planning. Summers in the region bring very high temperatures. Therefore, engineers must design cooling and shading systems that maintain stable conditions inside the glasshouses. Dutch specialists conduct environmental studies before construction. They analyze land quality, temperature patterns, and seasonal variations. After that, they design customized systems that allow continuous production throughout the year.
Sebastiaan Hijstek, director of a Dutch company involved in the project, described the partnership as strategic. He confirmed that his company has already built advanced glasshouses in Erbil. Furthermore, he expressed readiness to expand operations and provide technology suited to local environmental conditions.
Investors also emphasized the support of the Kurdistan Regional Government. They said the government facilitated land allocation and helped coordinate with foreign companies. This cooperation built trust and accelerated implementation. As a result, the project successfully launched in Erbil. In the near future, investors plan to expand to Sulaimani and Halabja.
Importantly, the initiative includes an educational component. Project leaders are working with local universities to train agricultural students. Through practical programs, students learn how to operate and manage modern glasshouse systems. This approach ensures that knowledge transfer continues beyond the initial construction phase.
The glasshouses regulate temperature, shading, and humidity. Unlike traditional plastic structures, these controlled environments improve yield stability and product quality. Consequently, farmers can produce crops throughout the year instead of relying on seasonal cycles.
Overall, the partnership reflects a strategic shift toward economic diversification. By adopting advanced Dutch technology and strengthening institutional cooperation, the Kurdistan Region aims to boost domestic production and reduce dependence on imports. At the same time, investors hope to open new export opportunities in the long term.
The Erbil-based project represents a practical example of how international expertise can support local agricultural transformation.
