Markets in Duhok province, Iraq, are currently filled with locally grown pomegranates, grapes, and apples following a temporary import ban imposed by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The Ministry of Agriculture's directive halts the import of selected fruits until November 15 to give local producers access to an unchallenged domestic market during harvest.
The policy aims to stabilize prices and support local farmers by protecting them from lower-priced imports during peak production. The measure is part of the KRG's broader agricultural strategy to strengthen food security, diversify the economy, and sustain local production.
"When our produce ripens, the Regional Government bans the import of the same products, so that our produce gets a good price domestically and it is in our favor," said farmer Yusuf Nerwayi. "Our own domestic produce is much better. Now is the season for the ripening of pomegranates, apples, and grapes, and there is demand for them in the markets, and they are being sold."
Local vendors in Duhok also report strong consumer demand. "Our own produce is local and there are no tricks involved, and they are very tasty," said Abdulqadir, a market seller. "Now is the season for domestic produce. This progress is with the support of the Kurdistan Regional Government."
Muslih Mohammed, Deputy Director-General of Agriculture for Duhok province, confirmed that the measure is temporary and designed to assist farmers during harvest. "The import of those products, such as potatoes, grapes, pomegranates, and several other products, is banned until the 15th of this month, in order to support farmers so they can sell their products in the markets," he said.
The ministry applies the policy based on production levels, with some products, such as potatoes and vegetables, under year-round import restrictions due to sufficient domestic supply. For other products, imports are allowed when local output cannot meet demand.
Alongside the import policy, the KRG continues to promote agricultural development through local festivals that provide marketing platforms for farmers. In Duhok's Amedi district, the Barwari Local Products Festival has grown rapidly, featuring over 200 stalls and attracting tens of thousands of visitors. The festival showcases regional products such as apples, honey, and nuts while supporting eco-tourism and cultural exchange.
In 2023, Barwari apples were exported to Qatar for the first time. The event's expansion reflects efforts to build stronger domestic and export markets for local produce.
The KRG's combined approach of seasonal import bans and producer-focused initiatives seeks to reinforce the role of local agriculture in the regional economy.
Source: Kurdistan24
