Iraq faces a sharp drop in wheat production this year. The Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that reduced rainfall caused a major decline in output. Officials estimate Iraq will produce 5.12 million tons of wheat in 2025. This marks a decrease from 5.4 million tons in the previous year.
The Iraq wheat production drop links directly to worsening water shortages. Iraq struggles with long-term drought and shrinking river flows. Climate change adds more stress to Iraq’s agricultural sector. The United Nations lists Iraq among the world’s top five countries most at risk from climate impacts.
Neighboring countries, including Turkey and Iran, built several dams on rivers flowing into Iraq. These projects have reduced Iraq’s water share. Without clear water agreements, Iraq continues to suffer from low river levels.
The Ministry of Agriculture highlighted that wheat needs more water than many other crops. Despite this, the country maintains strong production of fruits and vegetables. These crops need less water and remain stable, according to Deputy Minister Mahdi al-Jubouri.
Earlier this summer, the ministry announced wheat self-sufficiency for the third consecutive year. Iraq has already harvested four million tons of wheat from provinces outside the Kurdistan Region. Officials credited this success to strong government programs and better farming methods.
During a recent event, Agriculture Minister Abbas Al-Maliki praised national efforts. He pointed to government support, modern irrigation tools, and improved seeds as key contributors. These tools help farmers deal with low rainfall and water scarcity.
Historically, Iraq has had high wheat output. The country produced 4.7 million tons in 2019, then 6.2 million in 2020, and 4.2 million in 2021. But the global wheat crisis and regional drought affected future harvests. Since then, water shortages have reduced output and forced Iraq to import more wheat.
As desertification spreads, local farming faces growing obstacles. The Iraq wheat production drop shows that climate risks now directly affect food security. The government may need new strategies to protect agriculture from long-term environmental damage.
Experts say Iraq must act quickly. They recommend water agreements with neighboring countries. They also stress the need for investment in irrigation, research, and sustainable farming.
The Iraq wheat production drop could continue unless these challenges are addressed. Farmers, officials, and scientists must work together to ensure future harvests.