Iraqi farmers protest sharp wheat price cuts

In several regions of Iraq — including Kirkuk, Baghdad, and Diyala — farmers have taken to the streets to protest the government’s decision to sharply reduce official wheat procurement prices. The base price was cut from 850,000 Iraqi dinars per ton (about $650) to 700,000 dinars (~$540), while some producers receive as little as 500,000 dinars (~$385).

Protesters say the new pricing does not cover rapidly rising production costs, including fuel, seeds, and agricultural machinery. They are particularly concerned that farmers outside official state programs are being paid the lowest rate, which they argue makes wheat cultivation economically unsustainable.

Demonstrations were held, including in Baghdad’s Tahrir Square, where agricultural unions and cooperatives demanded a return to a unified purchase price of 850,000 dinars per ton. Farmers are also calling for payment of outstanding arrears from previous seasons and a revision of government yield calculations used to determine procurement volumes.

Farmers argue that the current pricing policy undermines the stability of a strategic sector that is essential for Iraq’s food security. They warn that continued cuts in support could lead to lower wheat production and increased reliance on costly imports.

Agricultural organizations say they will continue peaceful protests until the government revises its decision. They are urging authorities to balance fiscal constraints with the need to sustain rural livelihoods, as the sector already faces severe pressure from drought, high costs, and broader economic instability.