Jordan Increases Wheat and Olive Oil Imports Due to Crop Shortages
Jordan is intensifying measures to ensure food security and stabilize the domestic market in response to a significant decline in its own production of wheat and olive oil for the 2025 season. The government has ramped up grain purchases and initiated additional imports of olive oil to avoid shortages and keep prices at an affordable level.
This is reported by AgroReview
Grain Purchases and Market Support
The state grain purchaser of Jordan has acquired approximately 60,000 tons of hard wheat flour from Cargill at a price of $262.50 per ton with delivery. The shipment is scheduled for the first half of February 2026, while the country retains the option to import from various states depending on market conditions. This move aims to enhance the stability of the national grain market and ensure a sufficient stock of strategic products.
Olive Oil Imports and Supply Priorities
Simultaneously, the ministry has allowed the import of 4,000 tons of olive oil to compensate for the low harvest and curb prices. The agency emphasized that the volume of imports may be increased after further assessment of domestic market needs. Priority in supply will be given to state consumer corporations, farmers’ unions, and private companies that adhere to established quality standards.
Importantly, olive oil is permitted only from member countries of the International Olive Council (IOC): Turkey, Greece, Tunisia, Italy, Spain, and Morocco. This decision aims to ensure high-quality products for consumers in Jordan. Most olive oil will be supplied in containers of up to four kilograms. An exception will be made for the union of olive press owners, which is allowed to import oil in containers of up to eight kilograms to regulate retail and prevent market abuses.
“According to the Jordan Department of Statistics, as of November 1, olive oil production was only 1,419 tons, while the average for 2012–2025 was 2,542 tons.”
According to official statistics, this year’s olive oil harvest in Jordan has sharply declined: in 2024, the country produced 35,828 tons, while this year’s figure is significantly lower than the average annual norm—nearly 25,000 tons.
Ministry specialists explain the decrease in harvest due to adverse weather conditions and a lack of rainfall, which have seriously affected olive yields in key agricultural regions. The comprehensive measures for procurement and import are designed to strengthen the country’s food security and protect consumers from price fluctuations.