Duhok’s Amedi to export 35 tons of tahini to Europe and US markets

DUHOK — The Amedi district in Duhok is set to export its renowned tahini to Europe and the United States, with an initial shipment of 35 tons planned. Known for its rich tradition of tahini production, Amedi has become a significant hub for sesame farming, with over 185 acres of land dedicated to sesame cultivation this year.

For the past three years, Amedi’s tahini producers have been exporting their product internationally, a development that has bolstered the local economy. Ayub Amedi, owner of the Beyaz tahini factory in Amedi, told 964media, “Every November, we prepare for exporting tahini, sending it abroad in several stages.”

Tahini, a staple Middle Eastern condiment made from ground sesame seeds, is highly sought after in international markets.

“Our factory produces one ton of tahini daily,” Amedi added. “In the coming weeks, we plan to export 20 tons to Europe and 15 tons to the United States.”

The Amedi district is home to 29 tahini production factories, which collectively export approximately 100 tons of tahini annually.

Duhok governorate is expected to produce around 600 tons of sesame this year, an increase attributed to expanded planting efforts. “Sesame crops were planted more extensively this season, and we anticipate a higher yield compared to previous years,” said Ahmad Jamil, Duhok’s Director General of Agriculture.

According to statistics from the Duhok Directorate of Agriculture, sesame production in 2023 exceeded 400 tons. This year’s output is projected to surpass that figure, reflecting the region’s growing capacity for sesame cultivation and tahini production.