October 29, 2026
Beirut – The Minister of Agriculture, Nizar Hani, conducted a field visit to the central wholesale market for vegetables and fruits in the capital, Beirut, during which he was briefed on the progress of work and the nature of the challenges facing the process of marketing local agricultural production. He held a meeting with the Wholesale Market Traders Syndicate, during which ways were discussed to improve its infrastructure and develop work mechanisms in accordance with approved international standards.
Discussions focused on the problem of the large disparity in prices between what farmers receive and what products are sold for in wholesale and retail markets. The need to establish transparency rules, reduce marketing costs, and reduce waste was emphasized, in a way that guarantees the rights of farmers and at the same time protects the purchasing power of consumers.
In a related context, Minister Hani stressed the importance of intensifying oversight campaigns in coordination with the concerned authorities, with the aim of confronting the phenomenon of trading in smuggled agricultural products, protecting national production, as well as ensuring food safety standards and establishing the principle of fair competition in the markets.
Hani explained that the process of modernizing wholesale markets represents a fundamental pillar for improving the efficiency of marketing Lebanese crops. Its desired goal is to achieve a balanced equation based on securing fair returns for farmers and providing high-quality goods at prices that suit consumers.
In conclusion, the two sides agreed to continue channels of coordination and joint cooperation between the Ministry of Agriculture and the union, with the aim of completing comprehensive development plans for the market and raising the level of services provided there.
