More than eight containers which contained more than 300 tons of Kurdish potatoes produced by Kurdish farmers were exported to UAE for the first time. The exporting began when a food supply company from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) visited Kurdistan and approved the quality of Potatoes.
Representatives from various Arabian Gulf and Jordanian McDonald’s restaurants have consistently and frequently requested a substantial quantity of Kurdish Potatos. They have been seeking range of 500 to 1,000 tons of these potatoes on a weekly basis. The demand for potatoes continues to be strong.
Due to the excellent quality of the Kurdish potatoes, McDonald’s restaurant chains in the Gulf countries and Jordan have requested its supply.
The price of Kurdish potatoes is at more than $80 a ton because of their high quality compared to Egyptian and Pakistani potatoes
Apart from the Gulf countries, KRG is willing to facilitate the export of potatoes from the Kurdistan to Azerbaijan as well.
The price of potatoes in Azerbaijan reaches $800 per ton, and that will benefit Kurdistan Region farmers.
Prior to being imported abroad, The Kurdish engineers examine the quality of potatoes.
In line with the KRG’s strategic objectives of enhancing food security, promoting agricultural development, and advancing farmers’ market offerings. The potato production has witnessed a substantial growth of 200,000 tons over the last four years, as stated by the KRG Media and Information Department. The volume of potato production is five times greater than the domestic demand.
The Ministry of Agriculture has repeatedly expressed its willingness to support farmers interested in exporting their potatoes.
Apart from potatoes, Kurdistan also plans to export onions, cucumbers, and zucchini to the Gulf markets. The KRG intends to export excess dairy products, olive oil, and other goods that exceed the local demand.
This successful export demonstrates the development in the agricultural industry in Kurdistan. This year, potato production reached a total of 600,000 tons and income estimates were $500 million.
Kurdish Farmers in produce 30 varieties of potatoes annually, of which 10 varieties are suitable for French fries and chips.
Kurdaily has learned that this year a local company has signed contracts with farmers to receive 20,000 tons of potatoes. The company will store store these potatoes in cool warehouses for up to six months for domestic consumption and exporting.
Last year, Kurdistan achieved a significant milestone by exporting its renowned pomegranates to the UAE. This marked the region’s first non-oil export and represented a significant step towards diversifying the economy.
The Bardarash district in Duhok province is the prime location for potato cultivation in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Potato production in Kurdistan has become easier now compared to previous years, thanks to advanced equipment and high-quality seeds.
