Begard Talabani, Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), stated that the Kurdistan Region has transformed into “a food basket” for Iraq, highlighting the government's commitment to establishing an association aimed at supporting women in economic markets.

While attending the 4th Agricultural and Food Industry Expo in Sulaymaniyah, Talabani told Channel8 that they are working to establish a Women's Solidarity Association that pays attention to women entrepreneurs, and the aim is to market their products.

According to the minister, so far 300 women want to participate in the Association.

Talabani said that Kurdistan has supplied the majority of the agricultural requirements for other Iraqi regions.

An advisor within the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources previously informed Channel8 that, from 2020 to 2025, the number of farmers and individuals engaged in agriculture has grown by 25%. Currently, the sector employs 18% of the population in the Kurdistan Region, with its products serving as a primary food source for all of Iraq.

The Ministry of Agriculture has taken measures to support farmers, including promoting exports, banning foreign imports during local harvests, and providing financial support by taxing imports and charging commissions from buyers instead of farmers.

Government Commits Support to Flood-Affected Farmers

Regarding the recent flood in Sulaymaniyah’s Chamchamal that severely impacted agricultural lands, Talabani emphasized that affected farmers will receive compensation and assured that the Ministry of Agriculture will undertake all necessary measures to support them.

New Tractor Manufacturing Factory to Boost Local Industry

Speaking to Channel8 at the Expo, Nawzad Ghafoor, president of the Sulaymaniyah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said an agreement has been reached to establish a tractor manufacturing factory in the area and expressed his full support for those who establish the factory.

Sulaymaniyah Expo Showcases Agricultural Innovation

The exhibition commenced on Thursday and will continue until December 20 with the participation of more than 100 local and foreign companies.

In addition to food products, the latest agricultural equipment and technology will be displayed.

Expo Supports Youth and Women in Agriculture

Meanwhile, Hiwa Ali, spokesman for the Agriculture Ministry, mentioned that the exhibition was opened in coordination with the ministry and aims to gather the ability of young people and support women entrepreneurs.