Once a cornerstone of Saida’s economy, agriculture—particularly citrus production—has steadily lost ground to urbanization and real estate development since the 1980s. Developed under the Road to Sustainable Food Production Program in Lebanon, led by DanChurchAid (DCA) and conducted by the Agricultural Movement in Lebanon, this research examines production and consumption patterns and the prospects for agroecological transition in Saida District and surrounding areas. Combining secondary sources, quantitative and qualitative primary data and field observations, including data collected during the Israeli war on Lebanon and its escalation in summer 2024, the study documents pressures on agriculture and food security.

The findings point to interconnected economic, social and environmental constraints. Agricultural land fragmentation, damaged irrigation networks, volatile input and produce prices, high transport costs and practices in the Hesbet Saida wholesale market undermine farm viability. Farmers report low incomes and rising debt, while land concentration, insecure access to land, gender wage gaps and limited social protection affect agricultural workers. Water contamination, unregulated wells, chemical use and continued urban expansion add further risks to ecosystems, health and livelihoods.

Agroecology is identified as a potential alternative for reducing reliance on synthetic inputs, improving resource management and supporting biodiversity. However, transition costs, possible initial yield and income losses, limited technical knowledge, remediation needs and farmers’ concerns about market acceptance remain substantial barriers. The study therefore underscores the need to address economic and institutional constraints alongside changes in farming practices.