Jordan remains highly dependent on grain imports

Jordan continues to rely heavily on grain imports due to limited arable land and chronic water scarcity. The 2024/25 rainy season was one of the weakest in decades, ending several consecutive years of below-average precipitation. As a result, domestic wheat and barley production is limited, and Jordan imports over 95% of its needs for these grains.

Wheat consumption continues to grow alongside population increases, supported by substantial government subsidies and strategic reserves covering an eight-month demand, according to oilworld.ru citing USDA data. Wheat imports are projected at around 1.15 million tons, while barley, subsidized for livestock feed, will require imports of 900,000 tons, with ending stocks expected to rise to 332,000 tons.

Corn imports, managed by the private sector, remain stable at 750,000 tons. Rice imports are forecasted at 275,000 tons, with seasonal increases expected ahead of Ramadan.

Jordan continues to diversify its supply sources as part of its National Food Security Strategy, aiming to minimize dependency risks on individual suppliers and ensure a stable provision of essential grains for its population.

Tags: imports, Jordan, wheat