Green walnut prices surge
Turkey-PKK clashes hit agricultural output in Duhok
DUHOK – Clashes between the Turkish military and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, known by its Kurdish initialism PKK, have severely damaged orchards and agricultural products in Duhok governorate. The production of green walnuts in Duhok has declined this year, driving up prices. This shortage results from ongoing shelling and instability in the area. Additionally, a widespread disease throughout the Kurdistan Region has further compromised both the yield and quality of the walnuts.
Haji Doski, a local fruit vendor, confirmed to 964media that the price increase stems from the limited availability of green walnuts in the market. Prices have now reached up to 6,000 Iraqi dinars (approximately $4.5) per kilogram, compared to last year’s 2,500 dinars (around $1.9) or less.
Green walnuts are the unripe, tender form of the walnut fruit, harvested early in the season before the shell hardens. They are sought after for their distinct, tangy flavor.
Azad Hamzo, the local head of Mzhe village in the Amedi district, told 964media, “In our village and surrounding areas, there are constant clashes between PKK fighters and the Turkish army.
“Over 500 productive walnut and grape trees have been burned due to the conflict. More than 100 rows of villagers’ grape orchards and gardens in our village alone have been destroyed.”
Ahmed Jamil, the director of agriculture in Duhok, reported a decrease in this year’s walnut yield compared to previous years, along with reduced sales volume. “The areas within Duhok governorate that produce walnuts are unsafe and unstable.
“Consequently, not all the produce can be collected, which affects the overall yield,” he said.
On July 4, Turkish bombardment ignited fires that destroyed about 125 acres of farmland and orchards in Sargale, Duhok.
Turkey is conducting a large-scale military operation in the Duhok governorate against the PKK, prompting the evacuation of several villages. The PKK, an armed Kurdish organization, has been in conflict with the Turkish state since the early 1980s.
The governorate of Duhok is key for the Kurdistan Region’s agriculture.
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