Jordan Overcomes Food Security Challenge: Ample Stocks and Stability Weather Regional Storms

Food security expert Dr. Fadel ELZUBI told Al-Rai that amid the region’s political turmoil and accelerating economic challenges, Jordan stands out as a resilient model in safeguarding food security and supply stability. This resilience is anchored in a proactive government vision and professional crisis management that has proven capable of protecting the domestic market and ensuring the availability of essential goods for citizens.

ELZUBI explained that the Jordanian government has succeeded in building an integrated food security system based on forward planning, diversified import sources, and strengthened strategic reserves. Official data show that the Kingdom’s wheat reserves cover local consumption for 10 to 10.4 months, while barley reserves cover 8 to 8.5 months—levels exceeding internationally recognized safety thresholds. Infrastructure expansions, including new silos, will raise storage capacity to more than 2.3 million tons, enabling Jordan to secure its needs for up to 16 months.

He noted that reassurance indicators extend beyond grains: the government confirms that reserves of essential commodities range from two to four months at minimum, with supplies continuing to flow regularly. Around 65% of basic food items have seen no price increases, while prices of about 20% have even declined—reflecting the success of government policies in stabilizing markets and easing inflationary pressures.

ELZUBI emphasized that this stability is no coincidence but the result of carefully planned proactive measures, including diversifying import sources to reduce geopolitical risks, maintaining continuous tenders to secure supplies, and daily monitoring of stocks and prices in local markets. The government also strengthened partnerships with the private sector and activated market regulation tools, such as restricting exports of certain goods when necessary, to ensure local availability at fair prices.

While many countries face supply chain disruptions and sharp price hikes, Jordan has maintained stable logistics, benefiting from multiple import routes by sea and land and from a balanced network of trade relations. Intensive field monitoring of markets has further prevented distortions or monopolistic practices that could affect availability.

ELZUBI affirmed that Jordan’s achievement in food security reflects the efficiency of government institutions and their ability to manage crises with flexibility and professionalism—especially amid challenges linked to climate change, resource scarcity, and reliance on imports for a significant share of food needs.

He concluded that Jordan’s experience in managing food security is a success story worth highlighting: the state has turned challenges into opportunities to strengthen national preparedness and ensure sustainable food supplies, thereby reinforcing public confidence and cementing Jordan’s image as a stable country capable of confronting crises with competence and resolve.