Minister of Agriculture Announces Increased Fertilizer Distribution
The Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Maritime Fishing, Ezzeddine Ben Cheikh, announced on Sunday an increase in the pace of fertilizer distribution, reaching approximately 1,400 tonnes in various regions of the Republic.
Overview of Fertilizer Distribution
During a joint plenary session between the Assembly of People's Representatives (ARP) and the National Council of Regions and Districts (CNRD) at the Bardo Palace, dedicated to the mission of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Maritime Fishing within the framework of the 2026 finance bill, the minister mentioned a "slight delay" at the beginning of the agricultural season in fertilizer distribution, which was quickly caught up.
Key Statistics
The quantities distributed this season have exceeded those of the same period last year, with:
- 25,000 tonnes of superphosphate (Super 45) distributed as of November 19, 2025
- 61,000 tonnes of DAP (diammonium phosphate) distributed as of November 19, 2025
- 21,000 tonnes of ammonitrate distributed as of November 19, 2025
Regional Challenges and Solutions
Certain regions, such as Kef, Nabeul, and Kasserine, experienced more significant shortages, and coordination measures are underway to improve their supply. The ministry is ensuring that farmers receive ammonitrate in an anticipated manner, with a current stock of 105,000 tonnes, plus a recent delivery of 13,000 tonnes.
Improved Cereal Seeds
The season started early in production areas, with:
- 370,000 quintals of improved cereal seeds distributed as of November 22
- Preparation of the remaining quantities is in progress The minister forecasts a total of improved cereal seeds exceeding 500,000 quintals this year, an unprecedented record, compared to the 262,000 quintals distributed during the previous season and the historical maximum of 350,000 quintals.
Ordinary Barley Seeds
Approximately 36,000 quintals of ordinary barley seeds have been distributed to regions, with continued distribution according to farmer demand.
