Syria increases corn production by 42%, but import dependence persists

Syria’s corn production increased by 42% in 2026 to 475.2 thsd tons, compared with 332.6 thsd tons a year earlier. The harvested area reached 84.4 thsd ha, while average yields of hybrid varieties were around 6 tons/ha. The largest volumes were produced in Raqqa (35% of total output), Aleppo (27%) and Hasakah (13%). Despite the significant increase in production, domestic output covers only about half of the country’s corn requirements, leaving Syria dependent on imported feed grain.

Syria’s Ministry of Agriculture had planned to plant 97 thsd ha of corn and produce 551 thsd tons, but actual results fell short of expectations. To further expand production, the government aims to increase average yields to 7 tons/ha by introducing higher-yielding hybrids, improving farming practices and developing irrigation systems. Some currently recommended varieties can deliver yields ranging from 6.34 to 7.7 tons/ha.

One of the industry’s main challenges remains a shortage of grain-drying capacity, particularly in Raqqa province. Due to insufficient equipment, farmers are forced to dry corn outdoors, while drying and transportation costs can exceed $30/ton in some cases. Inadequate drying increases the risk of mold and mycotoxin contamination, potentially making the grain unsuitable for animal feed. For safe storage, corn moisture content must be reduced to 13–14%.

To expand post-harvest infrastructure, Syria is converting one of the production lines at the Tal Salhab Sugar Factory into a corn-drying facility with a capacity of up to 1 thsd tons per day. Plans also include upgrading a second line and rehabilitating and expanding drying capacity in other grain-producing regions. Meanwhile, high costs for seeds, fertilizers, fuel, irrigation and harvesting continue to weigh on production profitability.

Syria also plans to develop its domestic animal feed industry to reduce dependence on imported raw materials. Three operating state-owned feed mills currently have a combined nominal capacity of 190 thsd tons per year, while another three facilities remain out of operation. The industry’s development program for 2026–2030 includes modernizing feed mills, building modern grain dryers, improving laboratory testing and expanding the use of locally sourced feed ingredients. These measures are expected to support domestic production and gradually reduce corn import requirements.

Tags: corn, Syria