Iraq expects 5M ton wheat harvest as self-sufficiency holds
Good rainfall and higher water reserves have helped Iraq stay on track for a fourth straight year without wheat imports.
IRAQ – Iraq expects wheat production to reach about 5 million metric tons during the 2025 to 2026 season, a level that could keep the country self-sufficient for a fourth straight year.
Deputy Agriculture Minister Mahdi Sahar al Jubouri said farmers cultivated about 8 million dunams of land across the country. One dunam equals about a quarter of an acre.
“Based on current production levels, Iraq will not need to resort to imports,” Jubouri said.
Good rainfall and wider use of well water supported production during the growing season. Many farmers relied less on river irrigation, helping crops perform better despite long standing water shortages in several areas.
The Water Resources Ministry said Iraq’s strategic water reserves increased by about 6 billion cubic metres this year. Officials believe the added reserves will help the country manage water demand during the summer season.
Iraq has worked for years to raise local wheat output and reduce dependence on imports. Better rainfall also helped raise reservoir levels after several dry seasons and lower river flows.
At the same time, the government has reduced the amount it pays farmers for wheat. Iraq cut the procurement price to 700,000 dinars per ton, equal to about US$535, down from 850,000 dinars, or about US$650, last season.
Jubouri said the government made the decision because of economic pressure linked to the U.S. Israeli war on Iran. Officials said the conflict reduced oil revenues after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, putting pressure on state finances.
Some farmers have criticised the lower price, saying it does not match rising production costs.
“The prices are unfair and unrealistic. How did you factor in the cost of fertilisers, pesticides, and seeds to set the price at 700,000?” said farmer Kadhim Obaid near Najaf.
Government officials said the current rate still remains higher than prices in global markets. Iraq has often paid farmers above international market levels to support wheat production in its dry climate.
Jubouri said the reduced price should still help maintain local wheat production and support the country’s food supply goals.
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