Syria wheat harvest recovery is making headlines in 2026. After the most severe drought in 60 years, the country’s grain sector is showing signs of renewed strength. Furthermore, this development brings relief to a nation that has long struggled with food security challenges. Below, we take a closer look at the key figures, obstacles, and prospects shaping Syrian agriculture this season.
Syria Wheat Harvest Recovery: 2026 Season Overview
In the 2026 season, Syria’s wheat harvest is projected to reach approximately 2.3 million tons. This marks a relative recovery following the most severe drought in the last 60 years. Consequently, this development offers some respite after a season that the agricultural sector described as historically difficult.
It is also worth recalling that since 2011, Syria has been heavily dependent on wheat supplies from Russia. Moreover, forecasts indicate that Syria’s wheat production will reach 2.3 million tons — a relative rebound following one of the driest periods in recent decades. A more even distribution of rainfall and increased agricultural support have encouraged farmers to improve crop management. As a result, many producers are hopeful of a bountiful harvest this year.
Sowing Targets and Syria Wheat Harvest Recovery Gap
Nevertheless, the planned sowing targets were not fully met this year. Specifically, farmers sowed 1.2 million hectares out of the planned 1.4 million — approximately 86% of the target. Therefore, the gap between ambition and reality remains notable. Currently, wheat is being cultivated on:
- 505,000 irrigated hectares
- 763,000 rain-fed hectares
According to officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Syria’s wheat production volume could have reached 2.8 million tons had the sowing plan been fully executed. Thus, this season’s gap between stated objectives and actual results proved to be significant.
Import Strategy to Support Grain Supply
To replenish its strategic reserves, the government is importing grain. Specifically, a recent purchase of 70,000 tons has been made. Furthermore, the grain is currently awaiting discharge aboard three vessels at the port of Tartus. In total, the volume of imports has reached 1.3 million tons.
It is noted that since 2011, Syria has relied heavily on supplies from Russia. These supplies have been secured through both bilateral agreements and government tenders. Consequently, external procurement continues to play a critical role in stabilising domestic food stocks.
Long-Term Agricultural Plan for Food Security
The agricultural plan for 2026–2030 aims to enhance food security. In particular, the plan focuses on the following key priorities:
- Improving water and land management
- Introducing drought-resistant crop varieties
- Expanding private sector participation
Therefore, the objective is to reduce the volatility of domestic supply and decrease reliance on imports during drought years. Additionally, by investing in sustainable farming practices, Syria hopes to avoid future shortfalls. Overall, these measures signal a broader commitment to structural reform in the country’s agricultural sector.
Source: Zerno On-Line (Russia)