Tunisia's Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Maritime Fishing has announced its preparations for the 2026-2027 grain and date seasons. In a session with the parliamentary committee on agriculture, food security, water and maritime fishing, ministry representatives revealed that 458.1 thousand hectares of major crops are planned for the current season. This includes 77 thousand hectares of irrigated grains. The ministry aims to ensure a smooth start to the season.
The ministry has made significant progress in providing certified seeds to farmers. As of October 16, 2026, around 232 thousand quintals of seeds have been distributed to production areas since August, out of a total program of 492 thousand quintals of subsidized seeds. Additionally, 100 thousand quintals of monitored barley seeds are needed for the season, with 12 thousand quintals already available to farmers.
The ministry has also ensured a sufficient supply of fertilizers. A stock of 63 thousand tons of ammonium nitrate is stored at the Bqelalat center, with an additional 6 thousand tons at the Gabes factory. Furthermore, plans are in place to import around 110 thousand tons to meet the needs of the agricultural season. These measures aim to support farmers in their preparations.
Land preparation works are also underway, with 64% of deep plowing completed, compared to 55% for the first repeat plowing and 17% for the second repeat plowing. The ministry is working to support farmers and improve agricultural guidance through a specific program for major crops in the 2026-2027 season.
The program includes regional workshops, field days and regional and national information days, as well as training programs for farmers and technicians. The ministry also plans to implement a national plan to rationalize fertilization in major crop areas, particularly through the creation of a digital platform for soil sample distribution and collection.
So far, soil sample analysis has been completed in 17 governorates. The ministry aims to ensure that all planned grain areas are sown and to expand irrigated areas in the north. Additionally, efforts are being made to accurately estimate the needs for monitored ordinary barley seeds.
The ministry emphasizes the importance of strengthening field control, in coordination with various stakeholders, to combat monopolies and the sale of seeds and fertilizers at illegal prices. The ministry also aims to facilitate farmers' access to ammonium nitrate supply certificates and speed up loan procedures to ensure they receive high-quality seeds on time.
Key points
- The Tunisian Ministry of Agriculture has planned 458.1 thousand hectares of major crops for the 2026-2027 season.
- The ministry has distributed 232 thousand quintals of certified seeds to farmers as of October 16, 2026.
- A stock of 63 thousand tons of ammonium nitrate is stored at the Bqelalat center, with plans to import more.
