Muthanna’s date season in full swing as farmers call for support

MUTHANNA — Farmers in Samawah, Muthanna governorate, are in the midst of peak date harvest season, producing more than 250 tons of fruit each day for distribution across Iraq, including to Baghdad, Karbala, Diwaniyah, and Hillah.

Harvesting begins at 4 a.m. and continues until noon, after which the dates are packed and sent to markets and auctions. Buyers from several southern and central governorates arrive daily to purchase the fruit.

Popular varieties currently harvested include Shukkar, Omrani, Bureim, Khadrawi, and Maktoum. Prices have fallen since the season began, dropping from 8,000 dinars (about $6) per kilogram to as low as 1,000 dinars (less than $0.70) in some markets.

Farmer Ali Hammoudi told 964media that Samawah began exporting dates on July 15 to several governorates. “Samawah stands out from all other governorates in date production and feeds all of Iraq,” he said, describing the region as Iraq’s “date basket.”

Hammoudi also cited challenges facing producers, including minimal government support and high treatment costs. “We spend significant amounts on sulfur and medicine for palm treatment,” he said. He noted that recent dust storms coincided with the pollination season and damaged crop quality.

“We demand government support for farmers,” he said. “While wheat and barley seasons get major attention and support, date season receives no coverage.”