Syrian authorities expect wheat production to reach around 2.5 million tons in the upcoming season, citing positive agricultural indicators that could support food security and move the country closer to self-sufficiency.  In a statement to SANA on Thursday, Director of the Grain Establishment, Hassan al-Othman, said Syria’s annual wheat requirement is estimated at about 2.5 million tons. He added that current available stocks, along with contracted supplies, stand at nearly one million tons.  Al-Othman said preliminary assessments by the Ministry of Agriculture point to a promising season if favourable weather conditions persist, potentially helping to narrow the gap between production and domestic demand.  He also said wheat storage infrastructure has improved compared with last year, with several silos and storage facilities rehabilitated using local expertise. However, he noted that dozens of additional sites still require upgrading ahead of future harvests.  Al-Othman stressed the importance of strengthening domestic production and supporting the agricultural sector to achieve wheat self-sufficiency, describing it as a key pillar of national food security.  The government continues to classify wheat as a strategic crop and supports its production through input provision and improvements in marketing and storage systems. Authorities say boosting self-sufficiency in wheat remains a priority amid ongoing economic challenges and sanctions. (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: Syrian Arab News Agency