Duhok corn production plummets amid low demand and prices

DUHOK — Corn production in Duhok province has experienced a steep decline this year, attributed to low market prices, weak demand, and a lack of government support, according to Ahmed Jamel, General Director of Agriculture in Duhok.

This year, only 1,647 acres of land were planted with corn, a significant decrease from 4,092 acres last year—nearly a threefold drop. Production also plummeted to 21,260 tons from 50,670 tons in 2023.

Jamel told 964media that low prices and poor demand in the local market are discouraging farmers from cultivating corn. The federal government does not purchase corn from farmers, which further disincentivizes them. He added that efforts are being made to facilitate the sale of Duhok’s corn to central and southern provinces next year.

Currently, the price of one kilogram of corn ranges between 600 and 1,000 Iraqi dinars ($0.40 to $0.60). Despite the decline in cultivation, Duhok’s soil remains highly suitable for corn farming, with significant production occurring in Shekhan, Bardarash, and areas surrounding Duhok city.

Duhok has a diverse agricultural sector and ongoing initiatives to boost local production while reducing reliance on imports. Plans include the construction of a 5,000-square-meter facility dedicated to collecting and marketing locally grown products.

In addition to corn, the governorate’s cultivation this year covers 2,678 acres of tomatoes, 2,209 acres of cucumbers, 320 acres of eggplants, 9,225 acres of potatoes, 3,143 acres of muskmelons, 1,508 acres of watermelons, and 2,163 acres of onions.

By early October, Duhok had exported approximately 225,000 tons of agricultural products to central and southern Iraq, with potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers being the most in demand.