Apple growers in Akkar hope to export to Russia and Egypt

An Nahar newspaper published a report about Akkar-grown apples which is now being harvested by the local farmers.  The report dwells on the hopes of the apple farmers regarding the role of the Ministries of Agriculture as well as Economy and Trade in helping to secure internal and external markets for their production which meets international standards. The report noted that apple production in Akkar constitutes 50% of the total production in the country.  In addition, some 3000 families in Akkar heavily depend for livelihood on their fruit harvests and especially on apples.  The report also shared the concerns expressed by farmers regarding the delay in selling their production to local traders who are arguing that the internal market is unable to absorb this year production.  This situation can lead to a sharp fall in prices to below the production costs which are particularly high because of high prices of pesticides, fertilizers, and labor.  The farmers hope that official efforts will be extended to market their apples in Egypt and Russia and that clear mechanisms will be put in place to ensure that farmers receive fair prices before the winter season.

Source: Al-Nahar 16 September 2014