On Thursday, the Head of the Farmers Union in Libya, Ahmed Abu Halala, attributed the country’s declining grain production to the halt in agricultural support and rising costs of fertilisers and agricultural essentials.
In press statements, Abu Halala lamented that grain production in Libya has decreased to record-low levels this year.
He added that the grain production slump is attributed primarily to the cessation of agricultural aid, inflated costs of fertilisers and farming supplies, as well as issues surrounding the marketing of the produce. These factors have discouraged numerous farmers from cultivating grain crops.
This decline in grain production underscores the critical situation facing Libyan agriculture. It emphasises the importance of implementing effective strategies and policies that can support the farming community and address the challenges in the sector, thereby ensuring the country’s food security.
Abu Halala’s recent remarks point towards the pressing issue of grain production in the country, which has reportedly reached record low levels this year. This situation may threaten the country’s food security if not addressed promptly.
Libya has the 10th largest proven oil reserves in the world and the 17th highest petroleum production. Despite this, the country still faces numerous challenges in economic diversification, and agriculture remains an important sector, employing a significant portion of the population. The main agricultural products are cereals (like wheat and barley), vegetables, dates, olives, and almonds.
Agriculture in Libya is based in the coastal regions where water supplies are accessible, and soil is fertile. The country’s agricultural sector has been facing challenges due to decades of neglect, conflict, and instability. This, along with the ongoing economic struggles, has resulted in reduced agricultural productivity.
