Halabja farmers protest watermelon imports, warn of crop losses

HALABJA — Farmers in Halabja gathered outside the provincial administration on Monday, demanding a halt to watermelon imports from Iran and Turkey during the local harvest season.

The farmers said about 5,000 dunams (1,235 acres) in Halabja are planted with watermelons, making up a large share of the Kurdistan Region’s supply. They warned that imported melons entering through border crossings while the local harvest is underway could slash prices and leave them unable to sell their crops.

“Our watermelons are red, natural, free of chemicals, and healthy,” farmer Jamal Abdulrahman told 964media, urging the agriculture minister to block imports until the local season ends.

Farmers said they met with provincial officials, who expressed support for their demands, but warned that without restrictions they may be forced to sell at a loss.

Halabja, located near the Iranian border about 83 kilometers southeast of Sulaymaniyah, was formally recognized as Iraq’s 19th governorate in April.