The Chickpea value chain in Lebanon: A great opportunity for development

Beloved in many traditional dishes, chickpeas are more than just a staple in Lebanese diets. They are essential for food security and a key crop for supporting sustainable agriculture. Lebanon’s chickpea sector faces significant obstacles: high crop losses, limited market access, low storage capacity, and reliance on imported chickpeas—covering 71 percent of the national demand. The FAO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, is working to enhance seed quality, agricultural practices, and storage capacity. The goal is to locally produce 40 percent of Lebanon’s chickpeas by 2030, with 85 percent meeting premium quality standards, and a 25 percent increase in employment. By addressing these challenges, Lebanon can revive the chickpea production sector, ensuring a more resilient food system and paving the way for a sustainable and self-sufficient future.

06/02/2025