FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/99 - SYRIA (6 September)
A recent FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission found that the worst drought in decades has seriously affected crop and livestock production. Rainfall last season (October–March), was between 25 and 70 percent below normal in several parts of the country. As a result, barley production, which is almost entirely rainfed, is estimated at 380 000 tonnes this year, around 72 percent below the five- year average. Wheat production, 40 percent of which is irrigated, is estimated at 2.74 million tonnes, 33 percent lower than last year's bumper crop and around 28 percent below average. The drought also devastated range vegetation leading to a significant increase in sheep mortality rates that seriously affected household incomes and exposed a large number of the Badia (nomad) population to food shortages.
Overall, domestic wheat requirements estimated at 3.8 million tonnes are anticipated to be met from current production and existing stocks. However, barley import requirements for the 1999/2000 marketing year (July/June) are estimated at around 1.18 million tonnes. In view of the country’s economic slowdown, Government imports are estimated at only 200 000 tonnes, leaving an uncovered deficit of 980 000 tonnes. As part of an emergency measure, private sector imports of barley have been authorised this year, but with low purchasing power of herders, only limited quantities are anticipated to be imported.
Emergency food assistance of about 24 000 tonnes of wheat flour is urgently required for an estimated 329 000 nomadic people for six months. International assistance is also urged to support Government efforts to replenish the National Fodder Fund, mainly barley which is almost depleted.
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