The wheat harvest has started across most areas of the Kurdistan Region. Farmers have begun collecting their crops, while government officials work to finalize wheat delivery plans. At the same time, silo operators say they are ready to receive wheat as soon as authorities issue the final decision.
In Erbil province, farmers will deliver wheat to three collection centers. These centers are located in Erbil, Qushtapa, and Koya. Officials say the facilities can store large amounts of wheat and handle the expected harvest.
Officials in Sulaymaniyah and Halabja have also completed their preparations. They are waiting for approval from the relevant authorities before opening the silos. Once they receive the green light, they will start receiving wheat immediately.
In Duhok province, farmers have already started harvesting wheat in areas near the Nineveh border. Agricultural officials expect harvesting to expand to Semel and nearby districts by the end of the week. However, heavy rainfall has delayed harvesting in Amedi and several surrounding areas. Farmers there may wait more than 20 additional days before they begin harvesting.
In Garmian, the harvest season is nearly complete. Most farmers have prepared their wheat for delivery. Local agricultural officials expect silos to open during the coming week.
The Kurdistan Regional Government continues talks with Baghdad to increase the wheat purchase quota for local farmers. Iraqi authorities first approved the purchase of 292,000 tons. Later, they raised the amount to 400,000 tons. However, Kurdish officials believe the new quota still falls short of farmers’ needs.
The Kurdistan Region operates 11 silos. Together, these facilities can store nearly 900,000 tons of wheat. This year, farmers planted more than 3.33 million dunams with wheat. Officials expect production to exceed 2 million tons.
Government representatives continue discussions with Baghdad. They hope to secure a higher quota before large quantities of wheat arrive at collection centers. Farmers across the region now await the final decision as one of the strongest harvest seasons in recent years moves forward.
