Najaf opens major wholesale produce market

NAJAF — Local authorities have opened a new wholesale fruit and vegetable market in southwestern Najaf, providing a modernized facility equipped with full infrastructure and aimed at easing congestion in the city center.

Governor Youssef Kenawi told 964media the new complex spans 125,000 square meters and includes a police station, health center, and large storage units designed to handle high volumes of cargo.

“The facility is located far from the city center, so it doesn’t disrupt public services or residents,” Kenawi said.

Traders welcomed the move, describing the market as spacious, better organized, and more convenient than the previous facility. “The market is large and well-planned. Merchants can now shop and operate with ease thanks to its facilities,” said fruit and vegetable dealer Ali Al-Hajjar.

Vendors who once shared cramped spaces in the older market have now been able to purchase private units, with Al-Hajjar noting “complete comfort in working here.”

Importer Rasoul Shenin said the market sources produce from Egypt, Jordan, Syria, and Iran, and offers prices competitive enough to draw buyers from other governorates including Babil, Diwaniyah, Karbala, and Dhi Qar. “Najaf’s market is second only to Baghdad in terms of size and pricing,” he said.