In a historic move for the Kurdistan Region's burgeoning agricultural sector, the first shipment of "Barwari Apples" was successfully exported to Qatar on Wednesday afternoon. Weighing in at five tons, this inaugural shipment represents a pivotal moment in the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) strategic initiative to boost the export of domestic products.

Agriculture Minister Begard Talabani, at the forefront of this momentous occasion, emphasized that this achievement is only the beginning. The KRG Ninth Cabinet aims to continue exporting additional batches of "Barwari Apples" to Qatar in the future, showcasing the exceptional quality of domestic produce from the mountainous Duhok Province.

Talabani, confident in the premium grade of "Barwari Apples," expressed optimism about the fruit's reception in international markets. The apples have gained local recognition for their quality under the label of "Barwari Apples," as reported by Kurdistan 24.

The broader vision of the KRG includes diversifying its export portfolio beyond apples. Minister Talabani unveiled plans to include livestock and eggs from Kurdistan Region poultry farms in future shipments, expanding the scope of the region's agricultural exports.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani showcased "Barwari Apples" at the Davos Forum, targeting international business leaders. The promotion received a significant boost when the Majid Al-Fatim Group of Companies, owners of the Carrefour Market chain, expressed interest in sourcing the apples following successful internal testing and inspections in the United Arab Emirates.

To enhance the quality of locally grown products and align with international standards, the KRG implemented a national training program for farmers. This initiative aims to equip Kurdish farmers with the necessary skills to cultivate, store, and export their produce successfully.

At the core of the KRG's progressive reform agenda is the Kurdistan Agriculture Export Initiative, launched in 2022. This initiative plays a central role in diversifying the region's economy and bolstering the agricultural sector, positioning the Kurdistan Region as a key player in the global market. As "Barwari Apples" make their mark in Qatar, the KRG looks set to further strengthen its position in international trade and contribute to the global agricultural landscape.