Tunisia anticipates record grain harvest, boosting food security goals

Tunisia's agricultural sector is poised for an exceptional season, with the current grain harvest already estimated at 8.4 million quintals and operations at 60% completion. Provisional figures suggest a total yield of approximately 20 million quintals, marking a significant 15-20% increase compared to the previous year. This promising outcome is further bolstered by the quality of the harvest, with agricultural data indicating that 70% of the cereals are of excellent quality, 25% are of average quality, and only 5% fall below average. The favorable distribution of rainfall, particularly in the northern and northwestern regions, alongside a strategic increase in certified seed distribution, reaching 524,000 quintals, or 30% of needs, contributed to this success. This marks a strategic objective achieved for the first time, surpassing the 265,000 quintals of certified seeds mobilized last season. The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of President Kais Saied's vision for a new Tunisia, with food sovereignty elevated to a pillar of national security. Saied consistently emphasizes the imperative to end reliance on imports and conserve water resources through dam development and public awareness campaigns promoting local seeds, particularly for key products like wheat, olive oil, and dates. The agricultural sector is a vital engine for Tunisia's economic growth and sustainable development, contributing over 10% of the GDP and employing approximately 15% of the workforce.