This year, the cereal harvest promises to be bountiful

Tunisia's agricultural sector is poised for a promising cereal harvest this season, a welcome development given the initial hurdles faced, including shortages of selected seeds and ammonitrate, alongside escalating production costs. This positive outlook was shared during a plenary session dedicated to examining measures for the vital field crops sector and restructuring the olive oil industry, as reported by La Presse.

Representatives from the Tunisian Union of Agriculture and Fisheries (UTAP) and the National Professional Group for Agriculture (CONECT) emphasized the need for an effective strategy to tackle future challenges. Key priorities include minimizing cereal losses, ensuring adequate harvesting equipment, modernizing collection facilities, and enhancing storage capabilities. They also highlighted the importance of combating fraudulent practices and preserving selected seeds to ensure the success of the next agricultural season.

Regarding the crucial olive oil sector, both organizations urged a focus on stimulating domestic consumption. They proposed redirecting subsidies from imported vegetable oils to Tunisian olive oil, making it more accessible to local consumers who recognize its nutritional benefits. Furthermore, they advocated for increased support for farmers and a shift from bulk olive oil exports to higher-value packaged products. The discussions also touched upon the development of educational farms to foster environmental awareness among youth. From our perspective at La Presse, these initiatives reflect a concerted effort to bolster Tunisia's agricultural resilience and economic potential, ensuring food security and promoting high-value exports in a challenging global market.