Preparations are complete for the 18th Duhok Grape and Honey Festival. The event highlights Duhok’s agricultural strength and supports local farmers.
Ahmad Jameel, Director General of Agriculture in Duhok, said the two-day festival will be supervised by Governor Ali Tatar and sponsored by Kavin Greenhouse. Around 50 farmers will take part, showcasing grapes, honey, and food products. This year, farmers will also sell their goods directly, offering them a bigger share of profits.
Jameel explained that the Duhok Grape and Honey Festival reflects the progress of the province’s farming sector. He said the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has introduced protective steps for grape growers, such as banning grape imports between November 1 and 11. Kavin Greenhouse will also purchase grapes from local farmers to ensure proper preservation and marketing.
Despite challenges like drought, Duhok leads Iraq in agricultural output. Nearly 164,000 tons of produce were exported this year to central and southern Iraq. Jameel added that future festivals would expand to Akre and Amedi, with exhibitions focusing on agriculture and food industries.
The Duhok Grape and Honey Festival has become a cultural and economic landmark. Vineyards in Duhok produce high-quality grapes for fresh consumption and raisins, while the honey industry thrives as a key source of livelihood. These products boost food security and support thousands of families in the Kurdistan Region.
Launched in the mid-2000s, the festival has grown into a platform for farmers and a tourism attraction. It highlights investment potential in agribusiness and food processing. The KRG is also focusing on agricultural diversification. Over 3,000 tons of fruits and vegetables are exported daily to federal Iraq, with 250,000 tons already shipped this season.
Investments in modern farming, partnerships with international firms, and weekly farmers’ markets are creating new opportunities. Agriculture is now a pillar of the Kurdistan Region’s economic strategy, helping reduce oil dependence and strengthen resilience.