Tunisia faces barley seed shortage for 2026-2027 season
Only 12% of estimated barley seed needs are covered, with 12,000 quintals available against 100,000 required.
Tunisia's agricultural sector faces a significant shortfall in controlled barley seeds for the upcoming 2026-2027 campaign. As of October 16, only 12,000 quintals were available, representing just 12% of the estimated 100,000 quintals needed. These figures were presented by the Ministry of Agriculture to a parliamentary committee on October 22.
Across all seed types, 232,000 quintals of selected seeds were available between August and October 16, against a forecast of 492,000 quintals of subsidized seeds. While the deficit in controlled barley seeds is a concern, the ministry's representatives noted that the supply schedule and potential additional deliveries are yet to be finalized, leaving room for further clarification on meeting the 100,000 quintal requirement.
The ministry also reported a stock of 69,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate fertilizer, with plans to import an additional 110,000 tonnes. For the 2026-2027 campaign, 1.458 million hectares are planned for major crops, including 77,000 hectares for irrigated cereals. Land preparation is progressing, with deep plowing at 64% completion.
Why it mattersTunisian farmers face a shortage of essential barley seeds needed for the upcoming planting season.