Iraq Resumes Rice Cultivation After Two-Year Ban
Iraq has recently resumed rice cultivation after a two-year ban that was prompted by water scarcity. The country is now testing out a strain of rice that consumes less water than traditionally planted versions. This move comes as officials report that water is more abundant due to heavy winter rainfall and promises of increased water flows from Turkiye.
The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Mahdi Sahar Al-Jubouri, revealed that Iraq has set aside 150 sq km (58 sq miles) for rice growing this season and is expecting a yield of 150,000 tons. This is a significant step forward after a two-year production ban that saw minimal rice planting for seed extraction purposes. The water crisis during this period was attributed to upstream dams built by Turkiye and Iran, as well as other climate change-driven factors.
Iraq, being one of the world’s top 10 importers of rice and wheat, has historically relied on imports to sustain its food rationing program. Decades ago, the country was self-sufficient in rice production and even exported wheat and barley. However, challenges such as soil salinity, poor irrigation systems, drought, and ongoing conflicts have led to a decline in domestic agricultural output.
To address the water scarcity issue and improve rice cultivation, Iraqi agricultural scientists have developed a new hybrid strain of rice called Ghiri. This variety is a cross between the popular Amber and Jasmine rice types and can be planted using fixed sprayers without the need for flooding. Initial trials at the Al-Mishkhab Research Station have shown promising results, and there are plans to expand its cultivation in future seasons.
The government is also encouraging farmers to adopt modern agricultural methods, such as fixed irrigation systems and mechanical seeders, to improve efficiency and reduce water usage. Incentives, including higher prices for produce, will be provided to farmers who embrace these practices. For the current 2024 season, rice farming has been permitted in five provinces, with Najaf province receiving the largest allocation of land.
Muhsin Abdul Ameer, head of the farmers’ association in Najaf province, reported that approximately 80 sq km of agricultural land in the province has been planted with varieties like Amber, Jasmine, and Euphrates rice. The successful planting season in Najaf province, which began in June, has now been completed.
The Iraqi parliament’s water, agriculture, and marshes committee highlighted the role of increased rainfall last winter and commitments from Turkiye to enhance Iraq’s access to water from the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in enabling the resumption of rice cultivation. Lawmaker Hussain Mardan mentioned plans to expand agricultural land in the coming years by implementing drip irrigation methods for rice, potentially reaching up to 1,000 sq km.
Overall, Iraq’s decision to resume rice cultivation and explore innovative strains like Ghiri demonstrates a commitment to improving agricultural sustainability and food security in the country. By leveraging modern technologies and sustainable practices, Iraq aims to reduce its reliance on imports and revitalize its once-thriving agricultural sector.