Iraq livestock sector under pressure from drought and disease, expert warns

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's livestock sector is facing mounting pressure from rising feed costs, shrinking water resources, deteriorating pastures and recurrent disease outbreaks, according to agricultural and livestock expert Adil al-Mukhtar. Many breeders have been forced to halt operations, contributing to a decline in the national herd and growing reliance on imports to meet domestic demand for meat and dairy. Cross-border animal diseases, particularly foot-and-mouth disease and hemorrhagic fever, have caused heavy losses among breeders due to limited vaccination coverage and weak veterinary oversight, al-Mukhtar said. Climate change has compounded the strain, with rising temperatures, reduced rainfall and extended drought periods lowering pasture productivity across grazing areas. Al-Mukhtar called for a national strategy to rescue the sector, including stronger veterinary services, expanded vaccination programs and support for domestic feed production. Livestock is viewed by Iraqi officials as a core component of national food security, with comprehensive reforms and sustainable policies aimed at boosting local output.