Farmers in Hit supply dawn-harvested crops to local markets

ANBAR — Farmers in Hit, a city in Iraq’s Anbar province, are harvesting crops at dawn and delivering fresh vegetables to local markets within hours, vendors and residents said, as demand rises for locally grown produce.

The early-morning harvest includes tomatoes, okra, eggplants, figs, and peppers, most of which reach markets across Hit the same day. Vendors say the bulk of vegetables in local stalls come from nearby farms, while most fruits are imported from countries including Iran, Syria, Turkey, South Africa, and Latin American nations. Imported items include bananas, peaches, oranges, apples, cherries, lemons, and apricots.

Shujaa Al-Heeti, a vendor in Hit, said the region’s produce stands out for its flavor and quality. “The produce from Hit is, by the grace of God, unique in taste and quality compared to other governorates,” he told 964media. He credited soil quality and farmers’ dedication and said demand for local vegetables has increased this season. “We’re also using social media to promote the goods,” he added.

Bassem Mohammed, another vendor, confirmed the local origin of vegetables sold in the markets and said watermelons come from Sulaymaniyah and Fallujah, especially the Naimiyah area. “Hit-grown watermelon does not meet expectations due to farmers not adhering to agricultural guidance,” he said.

Waad Mushrif, a vendor, said most produce now comes from Hit’s surrounding fields. “Prices are acceptable, but the overall market isn’t strong — except for okra,” he said, calling on the government to support local growers.

Residents voiced a preference for local crops, citing both price and quality. “Local products are tastier and more natural. Imported items undergo unnatural preservation processes,” said Abdullah Makhlif. He noted that prices typically drop as the season progresses.

“Local goods are cheaper and support our farmers,” added Saad Matar. “We prefer them over imports.”

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