Amidst the many crises facing Lebanon, Minister of Agriculture Nizar Hani confirmed that Lebanese olive oil remains widely available on the market at affordable prices. He encouraged citizens to consume more of it to support local farmers and boost the national economy.
Regarding soil quality in the south, the minister stated that ongoing tests show no major concerns about phosphorus levels, but attention must be given to heavy metal contamination. He also revealed that agricultural losses have surpassed $120 million, with compensation processes yet to begin.
To better organize the sector, the ministry is inviting farmers to register in the national agricultural registry, which will soon become a mandatory requirement to benefit from future aid and development projects.
As part of sustainable rural development efforts, 34 grant agreements have been signed between Lebanese farmers and the FAO, supported by the Embassy of Denmark, aiming to revive rural agriculture.
Through the “Together for Lebanon’s Olive Trees” initiative, Hani also launched a major olive tree replanting campaign in partnership with Arab and local NGOs, aiming to rehabilitate orchards destroyed by Israeli bombings. The initiative, which brings together civil society and academic institutions, seeks to plant thousands of trees in the south, symbolizing resilience and rebuilding.
Speakers at the event emphasized that the olive tree is more than just an agricultural product—it represents peace, resilience and national identity.
With more than 134,000 hectares of farmland damaged and 70 farmers and engineers deceased, the urgency today lies in reconstruction, solidarity and ecological resistance.
Finally, the minister announced the imminent launch of a national campaign titled “Agriculture: The Beating Heart of the Land,” aimed at promoting the vital role of agriculture in Lebanon's economy and national identity.
Minister Hani reaffirmed that farmers will remain central to all future agricultural policies.
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