First Basra dates hit markets amid high prices and water-related challenges

BASRA — The first dates of the season have arrived in Basra, with the prized Barhi and Bream varieties leading early harvests despite worsening water salinity and shortages affecting the region’s palm groves.

At Bashar Street’s central date auction — a major distribution hub — vendors said they were surprised by the volume of dates coming in, though prices remain elevated due to low yields and strong demand from across Iraq.

“We didn’t expect this level of supply, especially with water scarcity and rising salinity,” said vendor Arshad Al-Fahham. “But demand for dates, especially Halawi, has clearly gone up.”

Harvesting has just begun, with Barhi and Bream dates arriving in small quantities. “Some lots don’t exceed 50 kilograms,” Al-Fahham said. “Barhi is selling for 15,000 dinars per kilo at the farm and up to 20,000 in the market,” or roughly $10.70 to $14.30.

Bashar Street market data shows Bream dates reaching 70 kilograms at 8,000 dinars per kilo ($5.70), while Awaidi dates brought in 100 kilograms at the same price. Halawi dates arrived in larger quantities — about four tons — and are selling for 3,000 dinars per kilo ($2.15). Sayer dates came in smaller amounts, around two tons, also at 3,000 dinars per kilo.

Farmers say water conditions continue to constrain productivity.

“We’ve started harvesting, but the output is far from ideal due to water salinity,” said farmer Riyadh Abdulkarim. “Still, this timing is promising, especially for Barhi and Bream. The supply is low and prices are high because of reduced production and the rush from other governorates to buy.”

Local shopper Subaih Hassan noted early signs of quality issues but remained hopeful. “Basra’s dates shine with their variety and known flavor,” he said. “But the lack of water is clearly affecting the size and texture — they’re no longer as moist as before.”

“Barhi, in particular, isn’t as large as usual, but it’s early. We expect better quantities and improved quality in the coming days.”