Agriculture in Lebanon: Challenges to Growth and Sustainability.

Agriculture has historically played a significant role in Lebanon’s economy, culture, and rural development. From the fertile Bekaa Valley to the olive groves of the north, Lebanon's diverse climate and topography have long supported a variety of crops, fruits, and livestock. However, in recent decades—and particularly after the country’s economic collapse in 2019—the agricultural sector has experienced severe setbacks. Farmers now face a web of interlinked challenges that threaten the sector's viability and sustainability. These challenges include water scarcity, the high cost of inputs, urban sprawl, pest infestations, poor infrastructure, market competition, and weak government policies.