Iraq Revives Rice Cultivation with Water-Efficient Strain

Iraq has resumed rice cultivation after a two-year hiatus due to water scarcity. The country is testing a new rice strain, Ghiri, which uses less water and can be irrigated with fixed sprayers. The government plans to further expand rice-growing regions and modernize irrigation methods.

Iraq has resumed rice cultivation after a two-year ban prompted by water scarcity, and is testing a strain of the grain that uses less water than traditionally planted varieties.

The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Mahdi Sahar al-Jubouri, told Reuters that 150 sq km have been allocated for rice growing this season with a forecast yield of 150,000 tonnes. Heavy winter rainfall and promised water flows from Turkey have improved conditions. The ban restricted production to 5-10 sq km yearly for seed extraction due to a water crisis driven by upstream dams and climate change.

Iraq, a top 10 global importer of rice and wheat, historically grew its agricultural products but has become a major buyer due to soil salinity, poor irrigation, drought, and conflict. Despite production resuming, Iraq will need to import 1.25 million tonnes of rice to meet demand this year. Rice farming occurs between June and November, with Amber rice being the most popular variety.

A new strain, Ghiri, developed as a hybrid of Amber and Jasmine rice, can be planted using fixed sprayers, reducing the need for flooding. Trials at the al-Mishkhab Research Station last year showed promise, and future seasons will see expanded cultivation with incentives for farmers adopting modern methods like sprinkler systems.

Rice farming has resumed in Najaf, Diwaniyah, Muthanna, Dhi Qar, and Babel provinces, with Najaf receiving the largest allocation. Agricultural land in Najaf province has been fully planted, comprising 37% of Iraq's allocated land. The water, agriculture, and marshes committee credits last winter's rainfall and Turkey's water release pledges for enabling rice cultivation resumption. Deputy Committee Chair Hussain Mardan noted plans to expand agricultural land to 1,000 sq km using drip irrigation.

(With inputs from agencies.)