Basra Expands Agricultural Plans Amid Water Availability and Production Cost Challenges

mniraq - Basra Governorate is preparing to increase its agricultural areas dedicated to wheat and barley, alongside expectations of significant growth in tomato production. This strategic plan relies heavily on the availability of necessary water quotas and addressing issues of salinity and rising production costs. According to official statistics from the Basra Agriculture Directorate, wheat-cultivated areas have increased by over 20,000 dunams to reach approximately 53,000 dunams, in addition to expanded areas for barley and other crops. Meanwhile, tomato production in the Zubair district is expected to rise to 650,000 tons. Marketing these crops at profitable prices and securing adequate water resources amid climate changes remain the most prominent challenges facing the success of this season's agricultural plan.