Iraq's Ministry of Agriculture announced on Saturday that it will begin exporting its strategic rice crop to international markets, following production levels that have exceeded domestic consumption requirements.
Ministry spokesperson Qusay Al-Khattab said the decision was made in line with directives from Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaydi and based on a proposal by Agriculture Minister Abdul Rahim Jassim Al-Shammari, as part of a new strategy for marketing Iraqi rice abroad.
He noted that increased production has enabled the country to meet local demand while maintaining a surplus available for export, adding that the move is intended to strengthen domestic agricultural production and expand the international reach of Iraqi products.
Al-Khattab also stated that the ministry will work with relevant authorities to simplify administrative and logistical requirements for farmers and exporters, facilitating the movement of goods to foreign markets and supporting the national economy through diversified revenue sources.
He added that the initiative forms part of broader government efforts to develop the agricultural sector and enhance both crop production and livestock activities.
